n., int., v., & adj.
n. the act or an instance of greeting or receiving (a person, idea, etc.) gladly; a kind or glad reception (gave them a warm welcome).
int. expressing such a greeting (welcome!; welcome home!).
v.tr. receive with a welcome (welcomed them home; would welcome the opportunity).
adj. 1 that one receives with pleasure (a welcome guest; welcome news). 2 (foll. by to, or to + infin.) a cordially allowed or invited; released of obligation (you are welcome to use my car). b iron. gladly given (an unwelcome task, thing, etc.) (here's my work and you are welcome to it). make welcome receive hospitably. outstay one's welcome stay too long as a visitor etc. you are welcome there is no need for thanks. welcomely adv. welcomeness n. welcomer n. welcomingly adv.
[ orig. OE wilcuma one whose coming is pleasing f. wil- desire, pleasure + cuma comer, with later change to wel- WELL(1) after OF bien venu or ON velkominn ]