móttaka

Móttaka is an Icelandic term that denotes the reception or intake of people, goods, or information. It can refer to both the place where people are received—a reception desk, counter, or lobby—and the process of admitting, registering, or handling introductions.

In healthcare, mottaka typically refers to the admissions or reception area of a hospital or clinic where patients check in, provide identification and records, and are directed to appropriate services. In such settings the staff may handle appointment scheduling, patient intake forms, and initial information gathering.

In education and public administration, the term is used for offices that handle student enrollment, newcomer intake, or citizen inquiries. In businesses, the front desk or reception function is also commonly described as mottaka, serving as the first point of contact for visitors and customers and guiding them to the right department.

The usage of mottaka thus spans both physical space and procedural activity. Depending on context, it can be translated into English as reception, front desk, intake, or admissions. The concept is widely used in Icelandic institutions to refer to the streamlined entry and information-gathering process that begins interactions between organizations and the public or clients.