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.
Maleni Munguia, the former receptionist who helped start the company, did not return emails seeking comment. Sam Tabachnik, Denver Post, 22 Sep. 2025 Stella, Britney Spears as Abby the receptionist and more. Francesca Gariano, PEOPLE, 19 Sep. 2025 Maybe Amanda can still be a receptionist. H. Alan Scott, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 Sep. 2025 The Senior Services Center Escondido is looking for volunteer receptionists. Linda McIntosh, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 Sep. 2025 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 2 Oct. 2025.

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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