kill the fatted calf

Idioms  

1. Prepare for a joyful occasion or a warm welcome. For example, When Bill comes home from his trip to Korea we're going to kill the fatted calf. This expression alludes to the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11–32), whose father welcomed him by serving the choicest calf after his return. [Early 1600s]

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Example Sentences

Fulham are the morning's other big movers and shakers, lining up a return for Paul Konchesky which allows to kill the fatted calf for Stephen Warnock from Villa.

From The Guardian • Jan. 21, 2011

So kill the fatted calf for we're coming.

From Tom Slade at Black Lake by Hastings, Howard L. (Howard Livingston)

He’s just come back to his own from a strange land, General, and you’ll kill the fatted calf or rooster, whichever Kizzie decides, with joy at getting him.”

From The Daredevil by Daviess, Maria Thompson

"I reckon yore folks will kill the fatted calf for you," jeered Hugh Roush.

From A Man Four-Square by Raine, William MacLeod

Yes, indeed; but Mrs. Crampton is determined to kill the fatted calf now.

From Doctor Luttrell's First Patient by Carey, Rosa Nouchette