hostie: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very Low (except in Aus/NZ)Very Informal, Colloquial
Quick answer
What does “hostie” mean?
A colloquial, primarily Australian and New Zealand term for a female flight attendant.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A colloquial, primarily Australian and New Zealand term for a female flight attendant.
In Australia/New Zealand contexts, it can be used somewhat pejoratively or dismissively to refer to a female flight attendant, often emphasizing stereotypes. In other English-speaking regions, it is extremely rare and would likely not be understood or would be confused with the unrelated word 'host'.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
This term is virtually non-existent in both British and American English. The standard terms are 'flight attendant', 'cabin crew', or historically 'air stewardess'.
Connotations
Where used (Aus/NZ), it can be seen as mildly disrespectful, sexist, or dated, though it can also be used in an affectionate, in-group manner. In UK/US, the term is not part of the lexicon.
Frequency
Effectively zero frequency in UK/US English. High familiarity in Australia and New Zealand.
Grammar
How to Use “hostie” in a Sentence
She works as a hostie.The hosties served drinks.He married a hostie.Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used; professional contexts use 'flight attendant' or 'cabin crew'.
Academic
Not used.
Everyday
Restricted to informal Australian/New Zealand contexts.
Technical
Not used.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “hostie”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “hostie”
- Using it outside Aus/NZ contexts.
- Assuming it is a standard, polite English term.
- Using it in writing outside very informal, culturally specific contexts.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. It will likely not be understood and may cause confusion. Use 'flight attendant'.
Generally no. Even in Australia/New Zealand, it can be seen as dismissive or sexist. It's best avoided by learners.
There isn't a direct, commonly used male equivalent of this specific slang term. The standard neutral term for all genders is 'flight attendant'.
It's a diminutive form of 'hostess', specifically 'air hostess', with the Australian/New Zealand tendency to add '-ie' to shortened words (e.g., barbie, brekkie).
A colloquial, primarily Australian and New Zealand term for a female flight attendant.
Hostie is usually very informal, colloquial in register.
Hostie: in British English it is pronounced Not applicable; term not used., and in American English it is pronounced Not applicable; term not used.. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No common idioms with this specific term]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
'HOSTIE' sounds like 'hostess' but smaller/-ie, like in Australia ('Aussie'). Think of a small, friendly hostess on a plane down under.
Conceptual Metaphor
SERVICE PROVIDER AS HOST (The attendant hosts guests on the aircraft).
Practice
Quiz
In which country is the term 'hostie' most likely to be understood and used?