waiter

noun

wait·​er ˈwā-tər How to pronounce waiter (audio)
Synonyms of waiternext
1
: one that waits on another
especially : a person who waits tables (as in a restaurant)
2
: a tray on which something (such as a tea service) is carried : salver

Examples of waiter in a Sentence

waiters at that elegant restaurant must go through an extended training program before being allowed to serve customers
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.
Your waiter can recommend wine pairing options from a selection of organic and biodynamic wines from Argentina’s wine-growing areas. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 June 2026 After our Bellini aperitivi, our waiter split a creamy Endive Salad with Avocado, sweet Bosc Pears and Pecorino on two plates at our table. Irene S. Levine, Forbes.com, 28 May 2026 Alec Merlino joined season one not for a cameo, but in the recurring role of Hutch, a waiter and bartender at the hotel. Mckinley Franklin, HollywoodReporter, 27 May 2026 Merlino played Hutch, a waiter and bartender at the White Lotus Maui resort. Christopher Rudolph, PEOPLE, 21 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for waiter

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of waiter was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Waiter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/waiter. Accessed 2 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

waiter

noun
wait·​er ˈwāt-ər How to pronounce waiter (audio)
: one that waits
especially : a person who waits tables (as in a restaurant)

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