welcome

Universal Words verb, adjective, noun, exclamation verb 1 ~ sb (to sth) to greet sb in a friendly way when they arrive somewhere: [VN] They were at the door to welcome us. * It is a pleasure to welcome you to our home. * [V] a welcoming smile 2 [VN] to be pleased that sb has come or has joined an organization, activity, etc: They welcomed the new volunteers with open arms (= with enthusiasm). 3 [VN] to be pleased to receive or accept sth: I'd welcome any suggestions. * I warmly welcome this decision. * In general, the changes they had made were to be welcomed. adjective 1 that you are pleased to have, receive, etc: a welcome opportunity / relief / sight * Your letter was very welcome. * The fine weather made a welcome change. 2 (of people) accepted or wanted somewhere: Children are always welcome at the hotel. * Our neighbours made us welcome as soon as we arrived. * I had the feeling we were not welcome at the meeting. * a welcome guest / visitor 3 ~ to do sth (especially spoken) used to say that you are happy for sb to do sth if they want to: They're welcome to stay here as long as they like. * You're welcome to use the pool. 4 ~ to sth (especially spoken) used to say that you are very happy for sb to have sth because you definitely do not want it: It's an awful job. If you want it, you're welcome to it! IDIOMS you're welcome (especially AmE) used as a polite reply when sb thanks you for sth: 'Thanks for your help.' 'You're welcome.' noun 1 [C,U] a greeting that is given to sb when they arrive, especially a friendly one: Thank you for your warm welcome. * The winners were given an enthusiastic welcome when they arrived home. * a speech / smile of welcome * to receive a hero's welcome 2 [C] the way that people react to sth, which shows their opinion of it: This new comedy deserves a warm welcome. * The proposals were given a cautious welcome by the trade unions. IDIOMS outstay / overstay your welcome to stay somewhere as a guest longer than you are wanted exclamation used as a greeting to a person who is arriving: Welcome home! * Welcome to Oxford!