with open arms
with open arms (idiom)
/ˌwɪθ ˈoʊ.pən ˈɑːrmz/
Meanings
- Welcoming someone warmly and gladly.
- Accepting something with enthusiasm or without hesitation.
- Being very friendly and eager when meeting someone or receiving something.
Synonyms: welcome; warmly; gladly; enthusiastically; wholeheartedly; cordially.
Example Sentences
- The family greeted their long-lost relative with open arms, smiling and hugging him as soon as he arrived.
- After years of waiting, the community accepted the new public park with open arms, excited to use it for gatherings.
- The teacher welcomed the new student with open arms, making sure he felt comfortable on his first day at school.
- He stood at the door with open arms, ready to hug his long-lost friend.
Origin and History
The idiom “with open arms” is primarily believed to derive from the literal physical gesture of extending one’s arms to embrace someone, symbolizing warmth, acceptance, and hospitality. This theory posits that the expression evolved naturally from human body language, where open arms represent vulnerability and eagerness to receive. Another perspective links it to classical sources, suggesting it draws from Latin phrases that conveyed similar ideas of enthusiastic welcome. Scholars note that such figurative uses may have roots in ancient rhetoric, where bodily metaphors were common to express emotional states.
Historical Development
The history of “with open arms” traces back to the 16th century in Latin literature, where it appeared as a collected proverb in scholarly works. It transitioned into English during the 17th century, reflecting the period’s interest in translating and adapting classical idioms into vernacular language. Over time, the phrase became a staple in English literature, used to denote cordial reception or enthusiastic acceptance, and has remained stable in meaning through modern usage. Its evolution highlights the influence of Renaissance humanism on English idiomatic expression, blending literal imagery with abstract concepts of affection and openness.
Country of Origin
The phrase “with open arms” as an English idiom first originated in England, emerging within the context of 17th-century British literature and linguistic development. While its Latin precursor was documented by a Dutch scholar active in Europe, the idiomatic form took shape in English-speaking contexts, influenced by the cultural and literary environment of Restoration England. This origin aligns with England’s role as a hub for adapting classical expressions into everyday language during the Renaissance and early modern periods.
Earliest Printed Record
The earliest printed record of the term “with open arms” in its idiomatic sense appears in Abraham Cowley’s work “The Mistress, or Several Copies of Love Verses,” published in 1647. Cowley, an English poet and essayist born in 1618 and deceased in 1667, employed the phrase in a poetic context to evoke welcoming a blessing enthusiastically. The specific quotation reads: “With open arms my blessing meet,” illustrating the figurative meaning of eager acceptance. This usage predates later examples and marks the phrase’s integration into English literary tradition.
Multicultural Significance and Symbolism
The imagery of open arms as a symbol of welcome is deeply ingrained in various cultures. It transcends linguistic boundaries, and equivalent expressions are found in most cultures and languages, such as “à bras ouvrets” in French and “mit auften Armen” in German. This widespread use underscores the universal human tendency to express warmth and acceptance through physical gestures, which have been metaphorically extended into language.
Variants
- with open heart
- with great enthusiasm
- with warm welcome
- gladly
- wholeheartedly
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