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receptionist

A2
noun

Pronunciation

UK

  • /rɪsˈɛpʃənˌɪst/

US

  • /riˈsɛpʃənɪst/
  • /rɪˈsɛpʃənɪst/

Description

Imagine walking into a doctor's office, law firm, or hotel—the first friendly face you see is usually the person at the front desk. They welcome guests, direct them to the right place, answer phone calls, and help things run smoothly at the entrance. A good receptionist is not just polite; they are also organized, efficient, and often give the first impression of the whole company. They are an important link between the public and the people working inside a business.

Examples

  1. 1

    Office arrival

    The receptionist asked me to sign in and take a seat.

  2. 2

    Delivery drop-off

    I left the delivery with the receptionist downstairs.

  3. 3

    Hotel help

    The hotel receptionist gave us a city map and told us where to catch the bus.

  4. 4

    Dental office

    The dental receptionist called to confirm my appointment for Monday.

  5. 5

    After-hours arrival

    If you arrive after six, ring the bell and speak to the receptionist through the intercom.

  6. 6

    Career path

    She started as a receptionist and later worked her way into office management.

    • Phrase

      work your way into

      gradually move to a better job or position

See also

nounperson who greets visitors, answers calls, and manages a front desk

Similar

  • front-desk clerk
  • front desk attendant

Shades of meaning

Contrast

Used with (collocations)

  • hotel receptionist
  • medical receptionist
  • receptionist's desk
  • receptionist duties

Word family

Explore

  • front desk
  • appointment scheduling

Forms and spellings

2 forms open this card.

Main spelling

  • receptionistnoun

Forms

  • receptionistspluralnoun