Waldorf

Waldorf is a term used as a surname and a place name, and it appears in several notable contexts, including Waldorf education, the Waldorf salad, and the Waldorf-Astoria hotel brand. It also designates a locality in the United States, such as Waldorf, Maryland.

Waldorf education refers to an international educational movement founded on the ideas of philosopher and social reformer Rudolf Steiner. Begun in 1919 in Stuttgart, Germany, for the employees of the Waldorf-Astoria Cigarette Company, it emphasizes a holistic approach that integrates artistic, practical, and academic disciplines. Curriculum is organized around developmental stages, and teachers frequently work with the same cohort over multiple years. The movement has grown into a global network of schools and teacher training programs, maintaining a focus on creativity, social responsibility, and experiential learning.

Waldorf salad is a dish originating in the United States and associated with the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York City. It is commonly described as consisting of diced apples, celery, and sometimes grapes and walnuts, dressed with mayonnaise. The dish gained widespread popularity in the early 20th century and has spawned numerous regional variants.

Waldorf-Astoria refers to a historic luxury hotel in New York City and, more broadly, to a brand of upscale hotels operated by Hilton Worldwide. The original Waldorf-Astoria opened in 1893 and became an iconic symbol of hospitality and style. Over time, the name has become associated with a line of high-end properties and related hospitality ventures.

Waldorf, Maryland, is a census-designated place in Charles County, United States, located in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. It developed as a residential community and is one of several U.S. localities bearing the Waldorf name.