Welcome
/ˈwɛlkəm/
Definitions
3 meaningsTo greet or receive with pleasure or hospitality.
/ˈwɛlkəm/
To greet or receive someone with pleasure and hospitality.
They welcomed the new students to the school with a special assembly.
💡 Simply: It's like saying 'Hello, I'm happy you're here!' and making someone feel comfortable and happy to be around you. Like when you invite a friend over to your house, or when a store clerk greets you as you walk in.
👶 For kids: To say hello and be friendly to someone who is coming to see you.
More Examples
The community welcomed the refugees with open arms.
She welcomed the opportunity to work on the project.
How It's Used
"The host welcomed the guests warmly at the door."
"The hotel staff welcomed us with refreshing drinks."
A greeting or reception; an instance or act of welcoming.
/ˈwɛlkəm/
An act of greeting or receiving someone.
The travelers were given a warm welcome upon arrival.
💡 Simply: The nice feeling and action you show when someone arrives somewhere. Imagine when you get a big, friendly 'Hello!' when you walk into a friend's house or an event.
👶 For kids: The way you say hello and make someone feel happy when they come to see you.
More Examples
The company extended a sincere welcome to its new employees.
Her initial welcome to the team was filled with enthusiasm.
How It's Used
"The welcome they received was heartwarming."
"The mayor gave a welcome speech to the visiting delegation."
Freely permitted or invited to enter or use; willingly received or accepted.
/ˈwɛlkəm/
You are welcome to stay as long as you like.
💡 Simply: It means you're allowed or invited to do something, like 'You're welcome to come to my party!' or 'Guests are welcome to use the swimming pool.'
👶 For kids: Okay to do, like when someone says, "You're welcome to play with my toys!"
More Examples
The new policy was a welcome change.
She received a welcome boost in confidence after the interview.
How It's Used
"Guests are welcome to use the facilities."
"You are always welcome at our house."
Synonyms
Accept
Embrace
Entertain
Greet
Receive
Acceptance
Greeting
Hospitality
Reception
Acceptable
Agreeable
Gratifying
Invited
Permitted
Idioms & expressions
You're welcome
A polite response to a thank you.
""Thank you for helping me." "You're welcome!""
A welcome sight
Something that is pleasant and makes one feel happy when seen or found.
"After being lost for hours, the familiar road was a welcome sight."
From Old English *wilcuma* (used as an exclamation of greeting), a compound of *wil-* (will, desire) and *cuma* (guest, newcomer). Over time, it evolved from a greeting into a verb and a noun.
The word 'welcome' has existed since Old English, originally as a phrase of greeting. Its usage has evolved significantly, particularly with the development of the verb and adjective forms.
Memory tip
Imagine opening your arms wide to embrace someone – that’s welcoming!
Practice
Word Origin
Root: *wilcuma*