waitress

UK: ˈweɪtrəs | US: ˈweɪtrəs

Definition

  1. n. a woman whose job is to serve customers at their tables in a restaurant

Structure
wait <serve>ess <female suffix>
Etymology

waitress = wait<serve> + ess<female suffix>

  • wait: From Old North French waitier ("to watch, guard"), influenced by Old English wæccan ("to be awake, keep watch"). Evolved to mean "to serve" in the context of attending to guests.
  • ess: A suffix derived from French -esse, used to form feminine nouns (e.g., actress, hostess).

Etymology Origin:
The word waitress emerged in the late 14th century, combining wait (originally tied to vigilance, later shifting to service) with the feminine suffix -ess. It reflects societal roles where gendered job titles were common. The male counterpart, waiter, lacks the suffix, highlighting historical linguistic gender distinctions.

Examples

  1. The waitress brought our drinks promptly.

  2. She worked as a waitress to pay for college.

  3. The waitress recommended the daily special.

  4. A friendly waitress greeted us at the diner.

  5. He left a generous tip for the waitress.