Both Uses of
hospitable
in
Jane Eyre
- Rather an inhospitable question to put to a visitor; but since you ask it, I answer simply to have a little talk with you; I got tired of my mute books and empty rooms.†
p. 436.2inhospitable = unwelcomingstandard prefix: The prefix "in-" in inhospitable means not and reverses the meaning of hospitable. This is the same pattern you see in words like invisible, incomplete, and insecure.
- I had lit their candles to go upstairs, but Diana had first to give hospitable orders respecting the driver; this done, both followed me.†
p. 454.8 *hospitable = welcoming
Definition:
welcoming or supportive
in various senses, including:
- inclined to treat guests well -- as in "She is good-natured and hospitable."
- favorable to life and growth -- as in "The climate is hospitable to roses."
- open to new ideas or change -- as in "The organization is hospitable to new ideas."