Kiosk
ki·osk
n.
1. A small open gazebo or pavilion.
2. A small structure, often open on one or more sides, used as a newsstand or booth.
3. A cylindrical structure on which advertisements are posted.
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[French kiosque, from Turkish kök, from Middle Persian gshak, corner, from Avestan *gaoshaka-, diminutive of gaosha-, ear.]
Word History: The lowly kiosk where newspapers are sold or advertisements are posted is like a child in a fairy tale raised by humble parents but descended from kings. The word kiosk was originally taken into English from Turkish, in which its source kök meant “pavilion.” The open structures referred to by the Turkish word were used as summerhouses in Turkey and Persia. The first recorded use of kiosk in English (1625) refers to these Middle Eastern pavilions, which Europeans imitated in their own gardens and parks. In France and Belgium, where the Turkish word had also been borrowed, their word kiosque was applied to something lower on the scale, structures resembling these pavilions but used as places to sell newspapers or as bandstands. England borrowed this lowly structure from France and reborrowed the word, which is first recorded in 1865 with reference to a place where newspapers are sold.
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Modern definition
The more modern definition of kiosk refers to public terminals that offer anything from Internet access to travel information to ATM services. Electronic kiosks require a simple user interface and rugged hardware. Touchscreens enable a user to enter and display information without the need for a mouse or keyboard. Alternative input methods must be considered, however, for those who can’t use touchscreens, such as people with physical disabilities.