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Welcoming Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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welcoming

[หˆwelkษ™mษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

friendly

Receiving someone with warmth and kindness, creating a positive atmosphere for the newcomer.

Synonyms

friendly, hospitable, inviting.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
welcoming

Used to describe a place or person that makes others feel accepted and comfortable. Often used when talking about first impressions and general atmosphere.

  • The hotel staff were very welcoming and made us feel at home as soon as we arrived
  • Her home was warm and welcoming, decorated with cozy furniture
friendly

Used to describe a person, environment, or gesture that is naturally warm and pleasant. Commonly used in everyday interactions.

  • Our neighbors are very friendly and always say hello
  • The company has a friendly working environment that encourages collaboration
inviting

Used to describe a place or situation that seems attractive and makes people want to be there. Generally focuses more on the appeal rather than the people.

  • The garden looked very inviting with its beautiful flowers and comfortable seating
  • Her smile was inviting, making everyone feel at ease immediately
hospitable

Refers to someone who is generous and provides outstanding service to guests or strangers. Often used in more formal or specific settings related to hosting.

  • The hosts were incredibly hospitable, ensuring everyone had a great time at the party
  • In many cultures, being hospitable is a sign of respect and kindness

Examples of usage

  • The hostess gave us a welcoming smile as we entered the party.
  • The welcoming atmosphere of the small town made the visitors feel at home.
Context #2 | Noun

reception

An act or instance of greeting someone in a warm and friendly way upon arrival.

Synonyms

greeting, reception, salutation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
welcoming

Use 'welcoming' when referring to making someone feel accepted and comfortable. It's often used for environments, atmospheres, or people that make others feel at ease.

  • The hosts were very welcoming to their guests.
  • The hotel staff created a welcoming atmosphere.
reception

Use 'reception' to describe a formal event or gathering where people are received, often in a professional or ceremonial context. It can also refer to the act of receiving someone or something.

  • The wedding reception was held in a grand ballroom.
  • The ambassador received a warm reception.
greeting

Use 'greeting' to describe the act of meeting someone and saying hello. It can be formal or informal and is often used in social or business interactions.

  • He greeted his friend with a big smile.
  • The CEO gave a warm greeting to the new employees.
salutation

Use 'salutation' in formal written or spoken language, such as in letters, emails, or speeches. It refers to the greeting at the start of a message.

  • The letter began with a formal salutation: 'Dear Sir or Madam,'
  • He ended his speech with a respectful salutation.

Examples of usage

  • The welcoming of the new students by the school staff was heartwarming.
  • The welcoming of the guests at the event was well organized and efficient.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, a welcoming atmosphere is essential during family gatherings, celebrations, or religious rites to foster unity.
  • Certain rituals, like the Hawaiian 'Ohana', emphasize a warm and welcoming spirit towards guests as part of their cultural identity.
  • Hospitality traditions in Middle Eastern cultures often involve elaborate meals and the open invitation to drop in, emphasizing the importance of a welcoming nature.

Psychology

  • Studies in social psychology suggest that a welcoming attitude can significantly reduce anxiety and promote trust among strangers.
  • Creating a welcoming environment at home or work can enhance feelings of belonging and improve mental health.
  • Researchers have found that people often perform better and feel happier in welcoming spaces, as positivity breeds cooperation.

Literature

  • In literature, settings often described as welcoming (like cozy homes or friendly communities) create a contrast with darker themes or characters.
  • Famous works often begin with a welcoming scene, inviting readers into the story and establishing a connection with characters.
  • The concept of a welcoming space appears across genres, used to symbolize safety and comfort amid conflict.

Art

  • Artworks that emphasize community, such as murals or public sculptures, often depict themes of welcome and inclusivity.
  • The use of warm colors in paintings can evoke a sense of welcome, drawing viewers into the artwork.
  • Many installations created in public areas invite people to engage and interact, emphasizing a communal welcoming spirit.

Origin of 'welcoming'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'welcome' comes from the Old English 'wilcuma', which meant 'a person who is wished to come'.
  • It has roots in terms that convey desire and comradery, with 'well' indicating good and 'cuma' meaning someone who comes.
  • Over time, 'welcoming' evolved to express both a feeling and an action, illustrating hospitality.

The word 'welcoming' originates from the Old English word 'wilcuma', which means a person whose coming is pleasing. Over time, it evolved to 'welcumian' in Middle English, and eventually became 'welcoming' in modern English. The concept of welcoming others has been valued in societies throughout history as a way to establish connections and create a sense of belonging.

See also: unwelcome, unwelcomed, unwelcomeness, unwelcoming, welcome.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,452, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.