| 1. | a doormat, esp. one with the word “welcome” printed on it. |
| 2. | put out the welcome mat, to extend a hearty welcome: The club put out the welcome mat for new members. |
| welcome mat n.
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welcome mat
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]