Interviewee

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /ˌɪn.tə.vjuːˈiː/

Definitions

1. A person who is being asked questions in a formal meeting, typically for a job, research study, or media appearance
2. A candidate who answers inquiries during a formal discussion, often in relation to employment opportunities, academic evaluations, or press engagements
3. An individual engaged in a structured exchange where questions are posed regarding personal qualifications, experiences, or opinions, usually for job applications or research purposes

Etymology: The term "interviewee" emerged in the 20th century, as the practice of conducting interviews became more formalized in various domains, particularly in journalism, academia, and human resources. This noun specifically refers to an individual who is being interviewed, often in the context of job applications or research studies. The word itself is a product of the combination of "interview," which denotes a structured conversation typically aimed at eliciting information, and the suffix "-ee," used to indicate a person who is the recipient or subject of an action. The root "interview" finds its origins in the French "entrevue," which is derived from the verb "entrevoir," meaning "to see each other" or "to meet." This term entered English in the early 19th century, capturing the essence of a meeting or dialogue between two parties. The addition of the suffix "-ee" follows a pattern in English where it designates the person affected by the action of the verb. In this case, it highlights the role of the individual who is on the receiving end of the questioning or discussion. As the word gained traction, particularly in the realm of employment, it began to embody not just the act of questioning but also the nuances of the interaction between the interviewer and the interviewee. Over time, the term has expanded to encompass various contexts, including media interviews and academic research, reflecting a broader spectrum of dialogues in which individuals share their insights, experiences, and qualifications. The rise of the term coincided with significant societal shifts during the 20th century, particularly as organizations began to adopt more structured approaches to hiring and information gathering. In this evolving landscape, the interviewee's role became increasingly important, as they brought their own narratives into the conversation, shaping perceptions and outcomes in ways that were perhaps not as prevalent in earlier, more informal interactions.

Synonyms: candidate, respondent, subject, participant, applicant

Antonyms: interviewer