Welcomely

Part of speech: adverb

Definitions

1. Exhibiting a manner that is inviting or gracious, often creating a warm atmosphere for others
2. Showing friendliness and hospitality, making others feel at ease and appreciated
3. Conveying a spirit of kindness and acceptance that encourages others to feel comfortable and valued

Etymology: "Welcomely" is a plain formation: the adjective "welcome" with the adverbial suffix "-ly" attached, producing a word meaning "in a welcoming manner." The suffix is the familiar Old English "-lice," which became "-ly" in later English and was attached to countless adjectives to turn them into adverbs. The base word has an older and more dramatic life than the suffix. "Welcome" comes from Old English "wilcuma," a compound of "wil" (pleasure, will, desire) and "cuma" (guest, comer), so it originally meant something like "one whose coming is desired." Over time it shifted from a noun greeting a newcomer into an interjection and then an adjective describing someone or something gladly received.