What Do You Call Someone Who Hosts a Party? Formal & Informal Terms

The right term for a party host depends entirely on tone, gender norms, and context. Here's a breakdown to help you choose the perfect word.

Formal & Neutral

• Host — Gender-neutral, standard, universally understood.
• Hostess — Traditionally female host; still used in formal invitations.
• Party Giver / Party Host — Explicit and unambiguous.
• Entertainer — Implies performance or elaborate hosting duties.

Informal & Colloquial

• Party Animal — Frequent, enthusiastic party-goer or thrower.
• Life of the Party — Charismatic center of attention (may not be the actual host).
• Party Planner — Emphasizes logistics; can be professional or amateur.
• Social Chair / Social Secretary — Organizational role in clubs, dorms, Greek life.

Event-Specific Titles

• Dinner Party Host
• Birthday Party Planner
• Wedding Host / Couple
• Housewarming Host
• Potluck Coordinator

Fun & Idiomatic

• "The one who throws the best parties"
• "Master of Ceremonies" (MC) — If they run the mic/program.
• "Captain of the Festivities"

For an invitation: "Hosted by [Name]." Simple, universal, and always appropriate.