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

Very affectionate was the look he gave Vital, who had been with him always, and for whom it was not necessary to kill the fatted calf.

From A Lover in Homespun And Other Stories by Smith, F. Clifford (Frank Clifford)

"I suppose we ought to kill the fatted calf," said Frank sarcastically.

From Army Boys on the Firing Line or, Holding Back the German Drive by Randall, Homer

"Yea! and we will kill the fatted calf, and slay the rams, and make merry."

From Two Addresses One to the Gentlemen of Whitby and the other, to the Protestant Clergy by Rigby, Nicholas

I fear, however, he will not kill the fatted calf in my honour; but even that omission will not deter me.

From The Childerbridge Mystery by Boothby, Guy Newell