Waitress Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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waitress
[ˈweɪtrɪs ]
Definitions
restaurant service
A waitress is a woman who serves food and drinks to customers in a restaurant.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| waitress |
Used specifically to refer to a female server in a restaurant or cafe. It is more gender-specific and can sometimes be seen as outdated or less preferred.
|
| server |
A gender-neutral term for a person who serves food and drinks in a restaurant or cafe. It is the preferred term in many modern and inclusive environments.
|
| waitstaff |
Refers to the entire group of servers working at a restaurant or event. This term is used when talking about the collective team rather than an individual.
|
Examples of usage
- She works as a waitress in a popular cafe.
- The waitress brought us the menu and took our orders.
casual setting
Informally, a waitress can refer to any person, regardless of gender, who serves food and drinks in a casual setting.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| waitress |
Use this term to specifically refer to a female server in casual conversation or in informal dining environments.
|
| server |
A gender-neutral term that can be used in any dining context, whether formal or informal, to refer to someone who serves food and drinks.
|
| waitstaff |
This term is used to collectively refer to all the people who serve the customers in a restaurant, regardless of gender. It's often used in a more formal or professional context.
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Examples of usage
- The waitress at the food truck was very friendly.
- My friend is working as a waitress at the local bar.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, waitresses play a vital role in the dining experience, as they often create a welcoming atmosphere.
- In the United States, tipping is customary, and it often forms a significant part of a waitress's income.
Historical Context
- During the Victorian era, women started entering the workforce as waitresses, challenging traditional gender roles.
- In the early 20th century, the profession became more formalized, with specific training and standards emerging.
Pop Culture
- The character of the waitress has been popularized in films and TV shows, often depicted as a relatable figure with a unique story.
- Shows like 'Waitress' (the musical) spotlight the experiences of women in this profession, blending humor and challenges.
Psychology
- Working as a waitress can help develop crucial interpersonal skills, such as communication and emotional intelligence.
- Studies show that customers often rate their dining experience based on their interaction with the waitress, highlighting the importance of this role.
Origin of 'waitress'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'waitress' combines 'wait' (to serve) and the suffix '-ess', which denotes a female role.
- The term 'waiter' was initially used for both genders, but the female variant started being used around the 19th century.
The term 'waitress' originated in the early 1800s, combining 'wait' and 'ress' to refer to a female who waits on tables. Over time, the term has evolved to be more inclusive and can now refer to any gender. The role of a waitress has been an essential part of the service industry, providing customers with food and drinks in various settings.