1. A female porter; a woman who carries luggage, goods, or other items, especially at a hotel, station, or similar establishment.
Usage: Less common than the masculine form 'porter'; Often used in historical or formal contexts
2. A woman who guards or tends a gate or door; a female gatekeeper or doorkeeper.
Usage: Archaic or formal usage

Examples

• The porteress at the hotel helped guests with their heavy suitcases.
• A porteress stood at the entrance to the convent, greeting visitors.
• She worked as a porteress at the train station for many years.
• The porteress carried the trunks up the narrow staircase with ease.
• In the old manor, a porteress controlled access to the main gate.