German · Greetings & Phrases
Willkommen
Welcome
Beginnerinterjection
Definition
An expression of greeting when someone arrives.
Example
Herzlich willkommen in Deutschland!
A warm welcome to Germany!
Etymology
The word 'Willkommen' comes from Middle High German 'wilcōmene', which is a combination of 'wil' (pleasure/desire) and 'komen' (to come). It has evolved into a standard greeting in German-speaking regions.
How & Where It’s Used
'Willkommen' is a formal welcoming term used in both spoken and written German, commonly found in hospitality contexts such as hotels and restaurants. Its register can range from formal to informal, and it is widely used across all German-speaking regions.