welcome mat

American  

noun

1. a doormat, especially one with the word “welcome” printed on it.

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idioms

1. put out the welcome mat,  to extend a hearty welcome.

   The club put out the welcome mat for new members.

welcome mat More Idioms  

1. A friendly welcome, as in They put out the welcome mat for all new members. This expression alludes to a doormat with the word “Welcome” printed on it. [Mid-1900]

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Example Sentences

Uganda is among a raft of poorer countries pulling back the welcome mat, which officials here blame on deep cuts to American aid.

From The Wall Street Journal

“A burger puts out the welcome mat,” he said.

From The Wall Street Journal

And U.S. stock exchanges, wary of wading into politically sensitive territory, have pulled away the welcome mat for China.

From The Wall Street Journal

This administration is never going to roll out the welcome mat for illegal immigrants.

From Los Angeles Times

“While other nations are rolling out the welcome mat, the U.S. government is putting up the ‘closed’ sign,” Julia Simpson, the council’s president, said in a statement.

From Los Angeles Times