I. ˈwel-kəm transitive verb
( wel·comed ; wel·com·ing )
Etymology: Middle English, from Old English welcumian, wylcumian, from wilcuma, noun
Date: before 12th century
1. : to greet hospitably and with courtesy or cordiality
2. : to accept with pleasure the occurrence or presence of
welcome s danger
• wel·com·er noun
II. interjection
Etymology: Middle English, alteration of wilcume, from Old English, from wilcuma desirable guest (akin to Old High German willicomo desirable guest); akin to Old English willa, will desire, cuman to come — more at will , come
Date: 12th century
— used to express a greeting to a guest or newcomer upon arrival
III. adjective
Date: 12th century
1. : received gladly into one's presence or companionship
was always welcome in their home
2. : giving pleasure : received with gladness or delight especially in response to a need
a welcome relief
3. : willingly permitted or admitted
he was welcome to come and go — W. M. Thackeray
4. — used in the phrase “You're welcome” as a reply to an expression of thanks
• wel·come·ly adverb
• wel·come·ness noun
IV. noun
Date: 1525
1. : a greeting or reception usually upon arrival
a warm welcome
2. : the state of being welcome
overstayed their welcome