Welcome

Welcome is a term used to greet someone and to convey hospitality. It can function as a noun, a verb, or an adjective. In everyday use, it signals that a guest or newcomer is invited, valued, and treated considerately.

Etymology: The word derives from Old English wilcuma, literally a “will-guest” or “desirable guest,” from wil (will or desire) and cuma (guest). The modern sense of inviting or receiving with pleasure developed in Middle English, and the phrase you are welcome emerged as a courteous response to thanks.

Usage: As an interjection, Welcome! is commonly spoken at doors, events, or openings. As a verb, to welcome someone means to receive them hospitably or to greet them warmly. As an adjective, welcome describes something offered or accepted with pleasure, such as a welcome gift or a welcome change. The expression You are welcome is a customary reply to thanks.

Cultural and practical aspects: Welcome practices vary by culture, but hospitality often begins at a threshold—handshakes, smiles, or offers of food and shelter. Symbols include welcome signs, welcome wagons for new residents, and online onboarding messages that greet users or employees.

In modern usage, welcome has extended to digital contexts, where onboarding messages, welcome emails, and welcome pages help orient newcomers to a community, service, or venue. Related terms include hospitality, greeting, invitation, and reception.