n. 1. A mat for wiping your shoes on, often with the word "welcome" on it, that is placed in front of a door. Mother bought a welcome mat for our new house. 2. informal A warm welcome; a friendly greeting. Used in such phrases as "the welcome mat is out" and "put out the welcome mat". Our welcome mat is always out to our friends. Spread out the welcome mat, children, because Uncle Bill is visiting us tonight.
Synonym: LATCH STRING 2 .
Compare: ROLL OUT THE RED CARPET, WITH OPEN ARMS.