Unwelcomingly: meaning, definitions and examples
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unwelcomingly
[ ʌnˈwɛlkəmɪŋli ]
manner of reception
Unwelcomingly describes an action done in a way that lacks warmth or hospitality. It suggests a negative or unfriendly approach to receiving someone or something.
Synonyms
coldly, hostilely, inhospitably.
Examples of usage
- The guests were greeted unwelcomingly at the entrance.
- She declined his invitation and responded unwelcomingly.
- The staff acted unwelcomingly towards the customers.
Etymology
The word 'unwelcomingly' is derived from the adjective 'unwelcoming,' which itself combines the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' with 'welcoming,' which comes from the verb 'welcome,' denoting receiving someone in a warm and friendly manner. The root 'welcome' has its origins in Old English 'wilcuma,' which means 'a person who is wished to come' (from 'will' meaning 'to wish' and 'cuma,' meaning 'guest'). Over time, the adjective evolved to describe the essence of hospitality or lack thereof. The suffix '-ly' turns the adjective into an adverb, allowing it to modify verbs and describe how actions are performed. Thus, 'unwelcomingly' captures the action of behaving in a manner that does not extend warmth or friendliness, emphasizing a generally uninviting attitude.