WordGarden.iousher
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /ˈʌʃə/
US
- /ˈəʃər/
Meanings
Noun
a person who welcomes people and shows them to their seats or places at an event or venue
Verb
to guide or escort someone somewhere, especially into or out of a place
to bring about or mark the start of something new
Beyond the definition
An usher is often someone who shows people where to go, especially at events or in formal places. You might see one at a wedding, concert, theater, church, or sports game. Their job is to guide people, help them find seats, and keep things moving in an orderly way.
The word can also be a verb. If someone ushers you into a room, they politely lead you inside. And if something ushers in a new time or change, it helps bring it about. So the idea behind the word is guiding people or leading the way for something new.
The word "usher" has evolved over time, but at its core, it describes someone who guides or leads others—often in a formal or ceremonial context. Originally, an usher was a royal official responsible for accompanying dignitaries and ensuring proper protocol. Today, while the role is less grand, the essence remains: to assist and direct people with courtesy and efficiency.
You'll most commonly encounter ushers at events like concerts, theaters, weddings, or religious services. Their primary task is to help attendees find their seats, answer questions, and maintain order. They are the friendly faces who ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
However, "usher" can also be used figuratively. To usher in a new era means to introduce it or bring it about—like a leader ushering in an age of peace. "The invention ushered in a new wave of technological advancements." This usage emphasizes the act of leading something forward, just as a physical usher leads people to their destinations.
So, whether they're physically guiding you to your seat or metaphorically opening the door to change, ushers are all about direction, assistance, and making transitions smoother for others.
Examples
- 1
Event seating
An usher checked our tickets and showed us to our seats.
- 2
Office reception
The receptionist ushered me into the manager's office.
- 3
Emergency evacuation
After the fire alarm, staff ushered everyone out of the building.
- 4
Historical change
The peace agreement ushered in a new period of stability.
- Patternusher in + period/change
cause it to begin
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- ushernounverb
Forms
- usheredpast tenseverbnoun
- usherspluralnounverb
- ushering-ing formverbnoun