웨이터
weiteo[we̞itʰʌ̹]
The Korean word for waiter is 웨이터 (weiteo).
웨이터 is an English loanword used to refer to a server in a restaurant or similar establishment. While it is used in written contexts or formal settings, it is rarely used to actually call a server's attention in a Korean restaurant.
Meaning: a server in a restaurant or similar (noun)
How do you pronounce it?
weiteo
When do people say it?
In practice, customers in Korea typically use 저기요 to get a waiter's attention. It is very common to address restaurant staff or owners as 사장님 as a polite way to get their attention, even if they are not the actual owner. Additionally, 아저씨 is a commonly used term to refer to middle-aged men in Korea and can be used to address a waiter in a friendly and familiar manner. When a server assists you, you can say 감사합니다 to mean thank you.
Did you know?
- In many casual dining spots, you can address the server as 이모 (auntie) or 이모님 (auntie) regardless of their actual age or relation to you. It creates a sense of familial closeness that is common in Korean dining culture.
- In many traditional Korean restaurants, you will not find a 웨이터 to call because the table contains a physical call button to alert staff.
- In high-end Korean dining, staff may be referred to as 지배인, which translates more closely to 'manager' or 'governor' than 'waiter'.
Examples in context
- 웨이터를 불렀어요.weiteoreul bulleosseoyo.I called the waiter.
- 그 웨이터는 친절해요.geu weiteoreun chinjeolhaeyo.That waiter is kind.
Example conversation
Hyunwoo and Minji are at a western restaurant.
- 현우 Hyeon-woo민지 씨, 웨이터가 오고 있어요.minji ssi, weiteoga ogo isseoyo.Minji, the waiter is coming.
- 민지 Min-ji드디어 주문할 수 있겠네요.deudieo jumunhal su itgenneyo.Finally, we can order.
- 현우 Hyeon-woo웨이터에게 메뉴를 물어볼게요.weite-ege menyureul mureobolgeyo.I will ask the waiter about the menu.
- 민지 Min-ji네, 그렇게 하세요.ne, geureoke haseyo.Yes, please do that.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “waiter” translations and entries 웨이터, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
