a lodging for travelers (especially one kept by a monastic order)
"The weary pilgrims found shelter and warmth at the hospice established by the local monks."
a program of medical and emotional care for the terminally ill
"The family found comfort knowing that their loved one was receiving specialized care at the hospice program designed for those who are terminally ill."
A lodging for pilgrims or the destitute, normally provided by a monastic order.
"The weary travelers found shelter at the hospice built by the local monks on their journey to Rome."
In plain English: Hospice is a place where people with serious illnesses get comfort and care instead of trying to cure them.
"The family gathered at the hospice to spend time with their loved ones before they passed away."
Usage: In modern everyday English, hospice refers to specialized facilities providing comfort care and support for people with terminal illnesses rather than general lodging for travelers or the poor. Do not confuse this specific medical meaning with historical references to shelters for pilgrims unless discussing older texts.
The word hospice comes from the French hospice, which traces back to the Latin hospitium meaning "hospitality" or "an inn." It entered English through this same lineage, carrying with it the original sense of a place offering shelter and care.