Re*cep"tion (-shŭn), n. [F. réception, L. receptio, fr. recipere, receptum. See Receive.] 1. The act of receiving; receipt; admission; as, the reception of food into the stomach; the reception of a letter; the reception of sensation or ideas; reception of evidence.

2. The state of being received.

3. The act or manner of receiving, esp. of receiving visitors; entertainment; hence, an occasion or ceremony of receiving guests; as, a hearty reception; an elaborate reception.

What reception a poem may find.

4. Acceptance, as of an opinion or doctrine.

Philosophers who have quitted the popular doctrines of their countries have fallen into as extravagant opinions as even common reception countenanced.

5. A retaking; a recovery. [Obs.] Bacon.

• the act of receiving.
  
• the ability to receive radio or similar signals.
       We have poor TV reception in the valley.
  
• a social engagement, usually to formally welcome someone.
       After the wedding we proceeded to the reception.
  
• a reaction.
       The ambassador's jokes met a cold reception.
  
• the front desk of a hotel or office where guests are received.