English

Etymology 1

Latin hospes , "host", by way of Old French host.

Noun

host (plural: hosts)

1. A person who allows a guest, particularly into the host's home.

   A good host is always considerate of the guest's needs.

2. A person or organization responsible for running an event.

   Our company is host of the annual conference this year.

3. A moderator or master of ceremonies for a performance.

   The host was terrible, but the acts themselves were good.

4. (networking) A computer or software component that provides services.

Related terms

• hostess
• hostel
• hotel

Verb

to host (transitive and intransitive)

1. To perform the role of a host.

   Our company will host the annual conference this year.

   I was terrible at hosting that show.

   I'll be hosting tonight. I hope I'm not terrible.

   Kremvax hosts a variety of services.

See also

• hospitality
• guest
• event
• master of ceremonies

Etymology 2

Old French host, Latin hostis , "foreign enemy" (as opposed to personal enemy, inimicus ).

Noun

host (plural: hosts)

1. A multitude of people arrayed as an army; used also in religious senses, as: Heavenly host (of angels)

   The invading host that had sailed from Hellas in more than one thousand ships was of an unprecedented size. [1]

2. A large number of items; a large inventory.

   A host of parts for my Model A!

Etymology 3

Middle English also oist , ost , Old French hoiste , Latin hostia , "sacrificial victim".

Noun

host

1. (Christianity) the consecrated bread or wafer of the Eucharist

Translations

• German: Hostie f (1)