Waiting the table

Question

I am asking the question from a waiter's perspective.

Can I use "wait" to replace "serve"? How?

I heard somone said "wait at tables" but I am not sure how to use the word "wait" in that context. Any examples?

When we study English, I was told that we don't just study one word. We study different forms of that word. Can I say that the verb form of "waiter" is "wait"?

Thanks a lot.

Mister Micawber · Accepted Answer

nokiaI heard somone said "wait at tables" but I am not sure how to use the word "wait" in that context. Any examples?

What is he doing now?
He is waiting table at ABC restaurant.

nokia Can I say that the verb form of "waiter" is "wait"?

Yes, I suppose so—although I cannot see what advantage there is in doing that, really.

AlpheccaStars · Answer

nokiaAny examples?

My son waits tables during the summer to earn some extra money. The tips are really good in the restaurant where he works.

The people who wait tables used to be called waiters and waitresses. Now they are called "waitstaff" (plural) and "waiter" (singular). I like the old terms better, but these days all position names are being changed to gender-neutral terms.

Other positions in the restaurant are busboy, cook and cashier.
The busboys bus tables.
The cashier takes the guests' money.

Very fancy places have a maitre d - the headwaiter who greets and seats the guests - and a wine steward who helps select wines to go with the meal.

Waiting the table

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