Gostičaj

Gostičaj (pronounced Gos-tee-chai) is a relatively uncommon term in modern Serbian and other South Slavic languages. It signifies hospitality, particularly the offering of warm welcome and refreshments (typically coffee, tea, or a small snack) to a guest immediately upon their arrival. It can also refer to the act of extending such hospitality. While the core meaning remains tied to welcoming guests, the nuances may suggest a degree of formality or traditional practice not always present in more general terms for hospitality. The word evokes a sense of respect for the guest and the importance of making them feel comfortable from the outset. The precise etymological roots are debated but linked to the concept of treating a gost (guest) with appropriate ceremony and care.