welcome mat: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
MediumInformal/Figurative
Quick answer
What does “welcome mat” mean?
A small, durable mat placed outside the front door of a home, often with the word "welcome" printed on it, for wiping shoes before entry.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A small, durable mat placed outside the front door of a home, often with the word "welcome" printed on it, for wiping shoes before entry.
A figurative expression indicating a warm, open, and hospitable reception, or a sign of accessibility and invitation.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Both varieties use the term identically for the physical object and the figurative sense. No significant lexical or semantic differences exist.
Connotations
Identical connotations of hospitality, invitation, and a lack of barriers.
Frequency
Frequency of use is comparable. The figurative sense is equally common in political and social commentary in both regions.
Grammar
How to Use “welcome mat” in a Sentence
put out the welcome mat (for sb)the welcome mat is out (for sb/sth)roll out the welcome matVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “welcome mat” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- They haven't exactly welcomed us with open arms, have they?
American English
- The city welcomes thousands of tourists each summer.
adverb
British English
- Any donations will be gratefully welcomed.
American English
- She was warmly welcomed by the host.
adjective
British English
- That was a most welcome cup of tea.
American English
- Your feedback is always welcome.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used figuratively to describe a company's open policy towards new clients, partnerships, or investment.
Academic
Rare in formal academic writing. May appear in political science or sociology papers discussing migration or integration policies.
Everyday
Common for referring to the physical mat. The figurative sense is used in general conversation about hospitality.
Technical
Not a technical term.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “welcome mat”
- Using 'welcome carpet' (unnatural). Confusing 'welcome mat' with 'red carpet' (which implies VIP treatment).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is very commonly used as a metaphor for an open, hospitable attitude or policy.
No, this is not a standard collocation. The fixed phrase is 'welcome mat' or simply 'doormat' for the object.
A 'red carpet' is for special, honoured guests (VIPs). A 'welcome mat' is for general hospitality and openness to all.
When referring to the physical object, it is neutral. The figurative use is common in journalism and spoken language but is considered informal for very formal writing.
A small, durable mat placed outside the front door of a home, often with the word "welcome" printed on it, for wiping shoes before entry.
Welcome mat: in British English it is pronounced /ˈwel.kəm ˌmæt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈwel.kəm ˌmæt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “put out the welcome mat”
- “the welcome mat is out”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a mat that literally says WELCOME on it. It's not just for wiping feet; it's a symbol that says 'Come in, you are invited here.'
Conceptual Metaphor
HOSPITALITY IS A PHYSICAL OBJECT THAT CAN BE PLACED OR REMOVED.
Practice
Quiz
In the sentence 'The university has put out the welcome mat for international students,' what does 'welcome mat' mean?