Waiter

/ˈweɪtər/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A person whose job is to serve customers at their tables in a restaurant.
The waiter brought us the menus and took our drink orders.
A person who serves food and drinks in a restaurant or café.
Our waiter was very attentive and made great meal recommendations.
A person who is employed to wait on tables at a restaurant or similar establishment.
As a waiter, she learned how to handle difficult customers with grace.
A person who waits, particularly for someone or something.
The waiter at the bus station checked the schedule while waiting for his ride.

Etymology

Middle English, from 'waiten' to watch or attend.

Common Phrases and Expressions

wait on someone
To serve someone, typically in a restaurant.
waiting tables
The act of serving food and drinks at a restaurant.
tip your waiter
To give a gratuity to the person serving you.

Related Words

serving
The act of delivering food or drinks to customers.
dining
The activity of eating dinner, typically in a restaurant.

Slang Meanings

Food runner
He works as a food runner at the restaurant, bringing dishes from the kitchen.
Water boy
In a casual setting, he’s known as the water boy for always bringing drinks.