hôtesse

An hôtesse is a female host, a term from French used to designate a person who greets, assists, or guides guests in various settings. The word is the feminine form of hôte, and in plural usage hôtesses denotes a group of women, while hôtes can refer to male hosts or mixed groups.

Common contexts for the title include hospitality, reception, and events. An hôtesse d'accueil works at venues such as hotels, conferences, or shops, welcoming guests, providing information, and directing attendees. In marketing or brand events, hôtesses may act as promotional staff or ambassadors, assisting with demonstrations, registrations, or product demonstrations.

In aviation, the role is traditionally described as hôtesse de l'air, commonly translated as flight attendant or air hostess in English. Duties focus on passenger safety and comfort, including safety demonstrations, service of meals and beverages, assistance to passengers, and coordination with the flight crew.

Training and qualifications vary by context. Aviation hôtesses require formal flight attendant training, safety and first-aid instruction, and language skills. For event or hospitality roles, employers typically emphasize customer service abilities, presentation, language proficiency, and knowledge of brand guidelines.

Etymology and usage notes: hôtesse derives from hôte, with gender-specific forms. In contemporary usage, some contexts prefer inclusive language by using hôtes to refer to hosts of any gender, while hôtesses specifically denote women. The term is widely understood in French-speaking environments and in international contexts, particularly in hospitality and air travel.