‘待客’ is a verb meaning ‘to receive guests’ or ‘to entertain visitors.’ It combines the character 待 (dài), which means ‘to treat,’ ‘to receive,’ or ‘to wait for,’ and 客 (kè), meaning ‘guest’ or ‘visitor.’ Together, they describe the active, respectful behavior of hosting others — offering food, drink, conversation, and hospitality. This word emphasizes intentionality and cultural appropriateness in social interaction.

It’s commonly used in contexts involving family gatherings, holiday visits, business receptions, or formal invitations. While not limited to any particular setting, ‘待客’ often implies traditional Chinese values of respect, generosity, and face-saving — for example, preparing special dishes or giving guests priority seating. It’s more formal and culturally weighted than simple verbs like ‘see’ or ‘meet’ a guest, and it rarely appears in casual, fleeting encounters like briefly greeting a neighbor.