receptionist

noun

re·​cep·​tion·​ist ri-ˈsep-sh(ə-)nist How to pronounce receptionist (audio)
: a person employed to greet telephone callers, visitors, patients, or clients

Examples of receptionist in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The receptionist calls a local provider, but the line is busy, or the wait is 40 minutes, or the driver takes a higher-paying fare and never shows. Catherina Gioino, Fortune, 29 May 2026 Reilly is a down-on-his-luck PI struggling to keep the lights on for his wisecracking receptionist Janet (Karen Rodriguez). Nicholas Quah, Vulture, 26 May 2026 The Indian Prairie Classified Association is made up of more than 600 staff members in the district, who serve as support staff — as teacher assistants, health aides, school secretaries, dean’s assistants, Library Media Center assistants, receptionists and copy clerks, according to IPCA’s website. Molly Morrow, Chicago Tribune, 22 May 2026 Learning from Pigeon Man that he’s been given an opportunity to learn an important life lesson, Damien returns to work, where Alex is set to become CEO, Atlas’ former receptionist Felicity (Fiona Shaw) is currently CEO, and janitor Glenda (Kathryn Hunter) owns the entire company. Todd Gilchrist, Variety, 22 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for receptionist

Word History

First Known Use

1901, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of receptionist was in 1901

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Cite this Entry

“Receptionist.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/receptionist. Accessed 6 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

receptionist

noun
re·​cep·​tion·​ist ri-ˈsep-sh(ə-)nəst How to pronounce receptionist (audio)
: an office employee who greets callers, answers questions, and arranges appointments

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