Definition

A mat that is placed in front of a door to clean shoes before entering a building.

Example

Please wipe your feet on the doormat before coming inside.

Conversation

I just bought a new doormat for my front door.

Oh nice! What does it look like?

It's got a cute welcome message on it.

That sounds perfect! A good doormat really makes a difference.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Doormat → It is formed from "door" (from Old English *dor*, meaning an entrance or opening) and "mat" (from Old French *matte*, meaning a flat piece of fabric or material). A doormat is a mat placed at the entrance of a door.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'door' as the entrance and a 'mat' as a flat piece of material placed there — that's why a doormat is a mat at the door.

Visually Confused Words