Receptionist: meaning, definitions and examples

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receptionist

[rɪˈsɛpʃənɪst ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

at a hotel

A person employed in an office or hotel to receive and greet clients or guests.

Synonyms

front desk clerk, front office staff, reception clerk.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
receptionist	Used in general settings to describe someone who greets visitors, answers the phone, and performs basic administrative tasks. The receptionist greeted us warmly as we entered the office. Please hand your documents to the receptionist.
front desk clerk	Often refers to personnel in the hospitality industry, such as in hotels, who check in guests, provide information, and manage bookings. The front desk clerk was very helpful in getting us a room upgrade. You can ask the front desk clerk for recommendations on nearby restaurants.
reception clerk	An alternative to 'receptionist' often used in more formal contexts, typically in office or business settings. The reception clerk will assist you with signing in. She has worked as a reception clerk for several years.
front office staff	A more general term for employees working at the front desk or reception area, applicable in various industries including hotels, clinics, and corporate offices. All inquiries should be directed to the front office staff. The front office staff were very professional and efficient.

Examples of usage

The receptionist greeted the guests with a warm smile.
The receptionist answered the phone and directed the call to the appropriate department.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

medical office

A person who greets patients, schedules appointments, and assists with administrative tasks in a medical setting.

Synonyms

clinic receptionist, front desk staff, medical office assistant.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
receptionist	This is a repeat of the first entry. Reusing the same word resulted in duplication.
front desk staff	This term encompasses all employees who work at the front desk, which could include receptionists as well as other administrative staff. This can be used in various types of businesses, including hotels, offices, and clinics. The front desk staff will assist you with your check-in. The front desk staff can answer any questions you have about your appointment.
clinic receptionist	This term is more specific to a receptionist working in a medical clinic. They deal with patient appointment scheduling, checking patients in and out, and handling medical records. Please check in with the clinic receptionist when you arrive. The clinic receptionist will give you the necessary forms to fill out.
medical office assistant	This term is specific to the medical field and refers to someone who provides administrative support in a medical office. Their duties can include handling patient records, scheduling appointments, and supporting the healthcare staff. The medical office assistant will call you with your test results. Speak to the medical office assistant to reschedule your appointment.

Examples of usage

The receptionist at the doctor's office helped the patients fill out their forms.
The receptionist informed the patients about the new clinic policies.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'receptionist' comes from the Latin 'receptio', meaning 'to receive'.
In the early 20th century, the role of the receptionist became more defined with the rise of large businesses.
Originally, the term was used for someone who received guests, evolving to include administrative tasks.

Cultural Significance

In many cultures, receptionists are viewed as the 'face' of the establishment, setting the tone for visitor experiences.
Movies often portray receptionists as savvy, quick-witted characters who manage chaos with a smile.
In Japan, the role of a receptionist, or 'oshigoto', highly emphasizes politeness and service etiquette.

Education

Many vocational schools now offer courses specifically designed for training receptionists in customer service and office management.
Skills like communication, organization, and problem-solving are highly valued in receptionist training programs.
Formal qualifications for receptionists vary; some may require specific certifications, while others prioritize experience.

Technology

With the advent of digital technology, many receptionist duties can now be automated, including scheduling and information retrieval.
Virtual receptionists have emerged, providing services remotely and often utilizing chatbots for initial contact.
Receptionist roles are increasingly involving tech skills, such as using software for bookings and customer management.

Workplace Dynamics

Receptionists often play a crucial role in the office atmosphere, being central to communication between different departments.
The position can be both rewarding and challenging, requiring multitasking during busy periods.
A receptionist's demeanor can greatly influence how people perceive a company or organization.

Translations

Translations of the word "receptionist" in other languages:

🇵🇹 recepcionista

🇮🇳 रिसेप्शनिस्ट

🇩🇪 Empfangsperson

🇮🇩 resepsionis

🇺🇦 реєстратор

🇵🇱 recepcjonista

🇯🇵 受付係 (うけつけがかり)

🇫🇷 réceptionniste

🇪🇸 recepcionista

🇹🇷 resepsiyonist

🇰🇷 접수원 (jeobsuwon)

🇸🇦 موظف استقبال (muwazzaf istiqbal)

🇨🇿 recepční

🇸🇰 recepčný

🇨🇳 接待员 (jiēdàiyuán)

🇸🇮 recepcionar

🇮🇸 móttökustarfsmaður

🇰🇿 рецепционист

🇬🇪 რეცეფციონისტი (recepctsionisti)

🇦🇿 resepsiyonist

🇲🇽 recepcionista

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,716, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
18713 bereft
18714 changeable
18715 ringed
18716 receptionist
18717 infamy
18718 glimmer
18719 speck
...