Definition of hostess

The term "hostess" can be traced back to the late 1800s when it was first used in the United States to describe a woman employed by railroad companies to supervise and provide hospitality to female passengers. The word was created by combining "host" and "lass" to create a female equivalent. As rail travel became more common, the role of the hostess expanded to include greeting passengers, assisting them with their luggage, and organizing social events and activities during the journey. Over time, the position of railroad hostess evolved into a more prestigious role, with women from wealthy and well-connected families often securing employment as hostesses. In the early 1900s, the concept of the hostess expanded to other industries such as airlines, where women were hired to perform similar duties as attendants for passengers. Today, the term "hostess" is still used in various industries, including event planning, hospitality, and marketing, to describe women who provide hospitality, welcoming services, or assist in entertaining guests. The legacy of railroad hostesses from the past can still be seen today in the ongoing tradition of tea services and afternoon tea, which was initially introduced as a perk for female railroad passengers. Tea services became a popular feature of rail travel, leading to tea rooms and tearooms becoming a standalone entity in many places around the world.