Welcome, dear reader, to a warm and sunny corner of our dictionary—a place where the doors are always open, and the welcome is always heartfelt. Here, we unfurl the phrase “with open arms,” dive into its origins, and explore its delightful cousins.
“With Open Arms” 🌟
Definition: Extremely welcoming; very cordial.
With its roots stretching back to Erasmus in the sixteenth century Latin, this phrase has been opening metaphorical doors and hearts for centuries. Lest you think it’s an antiquated blandishment, here it is immortalized by Alexander Pope in his 1735 “Epistle to Arbuthnot”: “With open arms received one Poet more.”
Related and Similar Terms & Expressions:
- Warm welcome: A similarly cordial greeting—think fluffy towels and hot cocoa on a chilly night.
- Arms wide open: A grand, exaggerated embrace, almost like hugging a giant teddy bear.
- Roll out the red carpet: Offering a welcome so grand, even royalty would be impressed.
- Welcome with bells on: Think of your grandma jingling all her jewelry in joy upon your arrival.
- Embrace with both hands: An extra-friendly hug, as if one pair of arms simply won’t suffice.
Synonyms:
- Warm reception
- Heartfelt welcome
- Amiable greeting
- Hospitable entrée
Antonyms:
- Cold shoulder
- Lukewarm reception
- Begrudging acceptance
- Tepid acknowledgment
Quotes, Proverbs & References:
- “A warm welcome is the universal language of kindness.” – William Arthur Ward
- “Hospitality is simply an opportunity to show love and care.” – Unknown Proverb
- “Greeting ‘with open arms’ is shorthand for saying: You’re someone worth celebrating.” – Fictional Sage, Sage TH Wordsouper
Literature, Books, Songs, Poetry, and Movies:
- Book: Welcome to Rosie Hopkins’ Sweet Shop of Dreams by Jenny Colgan – Where nostalgic confections mix with heartfelt greetings.
- Song: With Arms Wide Open by Creed – An anthem of emotive reception (and ridiculously high vocal notes).
- Movie: Love Actually – A mosaic of embraces, welcomes, and heartfelt connections.
- Poem: The Welcome by Thomas Hood – Woven words of embracing hospitality.
- Literature: Little Women by Louisa May Alcott – A tale replete with familial embraces.
Quizzes to Delight and Educate:
May you always be received by others “with open arms,” and may your arms always be open to others in return.🌟
Inspirational Thought: “In a world of closed doors, find every opportunity to throw open your arms.” — Eleanor Wordsmith
