A friendly reception
Meaning
A warm and welcoming welcome extended to someone upon their arrival or presentation.
Origin
The very act of 'reception,' borrowed from the Old French 'recepcion' and ultimately the Latin 'receptio' meaning 'a receiving,' originally simply denoted the act of taking in or welcoming someone. But when the human warmth of 'friendly' is woven into it, the phrase becomes so much more than a formal greeting. It paints a vivid picture of genuine goodwill, where open arms and a welcoming smile transform a stranger into a cherished guest. This isn't just about allowing entry; it's about making someone feel profoundly accepted and at ease, a core principle of hospitality that echoes back to ancient times when the manner of welcome often determined the very fate of a traveler.
Examples
- The new neighbors were delighted to receive a friendly reception from everyone on the street, complete with baked goods and introductions.
- Despite arriving late, she was immediately put at ease by the remarkably friendly reception from the conference organizers.