Etymology Journal · M

Make yourself at home

Meaning

An invitation to relax and act as if you live there. It is the gold standard for hospitality in the American household.

Welcoming, cozy

Come on in and make yourself at home while I pull the casserole out of the oven.
Don't stand in the hallway, please make yourself at home.
We want guests to truly make yourself at home when you visit our cabin.

This has been a staple of English politeness for centuries. It evolved from simple commands to be comfortable into a standard polite formula.

Nationwide

Vibe check