receptionist
UK: rɪˈsep.ʃən.ɪst | US: rɪˈsep.ʃən.ɪst
n. a person employed to greet and assist visitors or clients in an office, hotel, or other establishment
n. a person who handles incoming communications (e.g., phone calls) in an organization
The word "receptionist" emerged in the early 19th century, combining "reception" (the act of welcoming or receiving) with the agentive suffix "-ist." It originally referred to someone who managed guests or clients in formal settings, reflecting the growing professionalization of service roles during the Industrial Revolution. The term retains its core logic: a person who facilitates "reception" (welcoming or handling arrivals).
The hotel receptionist checked us in efficiently.
As a medical receptionist, she schedules appointments and answers phone calls.
The company hired a bilingual receptionist to assist international clients.
The receptionist directed the visitors to the conference room.
He worked part-time as a receptionist while studying at university.