What does kiosk mean?
A kiosk is a small structure, counter, or enclosed booth where people can obtain goods or services. Common examples include newspaper kiosks, food stalls, ticket counters, and information or self-service kiosks. The word is useful because it describes a distinctive type of public-place architecture that is smaller than a shop and usually designed for a limited purpose. It is neutral in tone and is used in both British and American English, although local usage differs slightly: British English often uses kiosk for a small standalone newsstand, while American English also applies it to counters and automated machines. Although kiosk may sound modern, the word entered English through French during the 19th century and ultimately comes from a Persian term associated with a pavilion or covered structure.
nounA small structure or enclosure, often in a public place, used for selling goods, providing information, or offering a service. A kiosk may be permanent or temporary and can be staffed or automated.
- A small building, counter, or enclosure used for selling goods, providing information, or offering a service.
- A small temporary structure, often with an open front, used as a shop or service point.
"She bought a newspaper from the kiosk outside the railway station."
"The airport has self-service kiosks for checking in and printing boarding passes."
"A food kiosk near the park serves coffee and sandwiches to commuters."
The standard plural adds -s.
"Several kiosks are located around the shopping center."
The word kiosk entered English through French but ultimately traces back to a Persian word for a pavilion or shade-covered structure.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does kiosk come from?
The English noun entered through French kiosque in the 19th century. French borrowed the word from Turkish kiosk, which in turn derives from Persian kūšk, meaning “pavilion” or “covered structure.” Related forms such as Spanish quiosco and Italian chiosco developed in other European languages through the same French source.
How kiosk is actually used
The word is neutral and common in British and American English. In British usage, a newspaper kiosk is often a small standalone building, while the American sense may also include a counter or machine in a larger building.
Easily confused with kiosk
Kiosk is the standard English word, while kiosque is chiefly the French form and is used in English mainly in specialized or French-language contexts.