What is guest? How to use in English

Definition & pronunciation of guest

guestnoun

khách, khách mời

/ɡɛst/

Definition & pronunciation of <b>guest</b>

Where does the word guest come from?

The word "guest" has its roots in Old English and Germanic linguistics. It is derived from the word "gostiz" or "gōstiz," which is related to the Proto-Germanic word "*gastiz" and the Proto-Indo-European root "*ghe-" meaning "to dwell" or "to live." The earliest recorded uses of the word "guest" date back to around the 7th century, with the Old English spellings "gūst" and "gēst." During the Middle English period (circa 1100-1500), the word evolved into "guest" and retained its original meaning of a stranger or foreigner who was received and entertained as a visitor or a stay with a host. Throughout history, the concept of hospitality and the act of receiving guests have been central to human societies, with the word "guest" reflecting the cultural and linguistic developments that have shaped our understanding of this fundamental social interaction.

Vocabulary summary guest

typenoun

meaningguest

meaningguest

examplea paying guest: monthly meals for guests

meaningparasite; parasitic worm; parasitic plant

Example of vocabulary guestnamespace

meaning

a person that you have invited to your house or to a particular event that you are paying for

  • They only use the dining room when they have guests.
  • She had invited six guests to dinner.
  • She felt that she had to entertain her guests.
  • There were more than 100 wedding guests.
  • I went to the theatre club as Helen's guest.
meaning

a person who is staying at a hotel, etc.

  • We have accommodation for 500 guests.
  • Guests should vacate their rooms by 10.30 a.m.
  • guests at the Grand Hotel
meaning

a customer in a restaurant

  • Restaurant guests can enjoy superb views across the bay as they dine.
meaning

a famous person or performer who takes part in a television show, concert or other entertainment

  • a guest star/artist
  • Our special guest tonight is…
  • He made a guest appearance on the show.
meaning

a person who is invited to a particular place or organization, or to speak at a meeting

  • a guest speaker
  • The scientists are here as guests of our government.

Synonyms and related words for guest

Idioms of vocabulary guest

be my guest
(informal)used to give somebody permission to do something that they have asked to do
  • ‘Do you mind if I open the window?’ ‘Be my guest.’

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