Both host and hostess are correct, but in modern English, host is preferred for both men and women because it is gender-neutral. This simple answer solves the main confusion many writers face today.
Many people search for “host or hostess” when writing emails, invitations, job titles, or event descriptions.
The confusion usually starts with gender. People want to be polite, correct, and modern, but they are unsure which word fits best. Is host for men only? Is hostess outdated? Can host be used for everyone?
This confusion appears in many places. You may see it on restaurant signs, TV shows, event invitations, or job ads.
Some people worry about offending others. Others want to sound professional or inclusive. Language has changed, and older rules do not always match modern usage.
Both words are still grammatically correct, but they are used differently today. English now prefers simpler and more neutral terms.
That is why many people choose host instead of hostess, especially in professional or formal writing.
This article explains the difference in clear words. You will learn what each word means, where it comes from, how British and American English use it, and which one you should choose today.
Host or Hostess – Quick Answer
Host = a person who welcomes guests (gender-neutral)
Example: She will host the dinner tonight.
Hostess = a woman who welcomes guests
Example: The hostess greeted us at the door.
Simple rule:
Use host for modern, professional, and inclusive writing.
The Origin of Host or Hostess
The word host comes from Latin hospes, meaning guest or stranger. Over time, it came to mean a person who receives guests. The word has been used in English for hundreds of years.
The word hostess was formed by adding “-ess,” a common old ending used to show female roles. Similar examples include actress and waitress.
In the past, English often used separate words for men and women. Today, English is moving away from that system. Many “-ess” words are now seen as old-fashioned or unnecessary. This change explains why host is now more common than hostess.
There is no spelling difference here—only usage change.
British English vs American English Spelling
There is no spelling difference between British and American English for these words. The difference is mostly about preference and tone.
| Word | British English | American English |
| host | very common | very common |
| hostess | still used | still used |
| modern choice | host | host |
Both regions now favor host in professional settings.
Which Spelling Should You Use?
Use “host” when:
- Writing professionally
- Referring to any gender
- Writing for a global audience
- Talking about TV shows, podcasts, or events
Use “hostess” when:
- Gender is important or clear
- Writing informally
- Referring to traditional roles (e.g., restaurant hostess)
Audience advice:
- US: Host is preferred
- UK/Commonwealth: Host is safer
- Global writing: Host is best
Using host avoids confusion and sounds modern.
Common Mistakes with Host or Hostess
❌ Thinking hostess is required for women
✅ Host works for all genders
❌ Mixing both words in one sentence
✅ Choose one and stay consistent
❌ Avoiding host due to gender fear
✅ Host is gender-neutral
❌ Using hostess in formal job titles
✅ Host sounds more professional
❌ Assuming hostess is wrong
✅ It is correct but less common
Host or Hostess in Everyday Examples
Email:
Thank you for being a wonderful host last night.
News:
The host welcomed guests from around the world.
Social media:
Excited to host tonight’s live session!
Formal writing:
The host opened the conference with a short speech.
Restaurant:
Please wait while the hostess seats you.
Host or Hostess – Google Trends & Usage Data
Search trends show:
- Host is searched far more often
- Hostess searches are declining
By region:
- United States: Host dominates media and jobs
- United Kingdom: Host preferred in writing
- Global English: Host is the standard
This reflects a shift toward gender-neutral language.
Host vs Hostess: Comparison Table
| Feature | Host | Hostess |
| Gender | Neutral | Female |
| Modern usage | Very common | Less common |
| Professional tone | Strong | Weaker |
| Global English | Preferred | Limited |
| Still correct | Yes | Yes |
FAQs About Host or Hostess
1. Is hostess outdated?
Not wrong, but less common today.
2. Can a woman be called a host?
Yes. Very common now.
3. Which word is more professional?
Host.
4. Are both words grammatically correct?
Yes.
5. Is host gender-neutral?
Yes.
6. Should job ads use hostess?
Better to use host.
7. Why do TV shows use host?
It sounds modern and inclusive.
Conclusion
The choice between host or hostess is simple once you understand modern English. Both are correct, but they are not used the same way today. Host is now the preferred term in most situations. It is gender-neutral, professional, and clear. That is why it appears more often in news, media, and business writing.
Hostess is still correct and still used, especially in informal speech or traditional settings like restaurants. However, it is becoming less common as language moves toward simplicity and inclusion.
If you want to avoid confusion, choose host. It works for men, women, and non-gendered roles. It also fits British, American, and global English.
Language changes with time. Choosing the right word shows awareness, respect, and clarity. With this guide, you can now use host or hostess confidently in any situation.
Learn more:
Ma’am or Mam: What’s Right?(2026)
Oliver Lexon focuses on English vocabulary clarity and usage accuracy. His writing breaks down confusing word pairs and grammar topics into simple explanations with real-life examples, making English easier for non-native speakers.
