‘Welcome Aboard’: Definition, Meaning, and Examples

By Amy Gilmore, updated on October 28, 2022

‘Welcome aboard’ is a popular phrase to welcome a new member, colleague, or teammate. The travel industry also frequently uses it to welcome passengers onto a train, plane, or boat. 

If you want to learn more about when to use this idiom, this guide has usage examples, tips, and alternatives you will find useful. So, keep reading. 

What Does ‘Welcome Aboard’ Mean? 

Welcome aboard is a term frequently used to welcome people to a new company, professional team, or project. However, the phrase originated from the travel industry, which is still frequently used to welcome passengers on a plane, train, or vessel. 

Definition of ‘Welcome’ 

‘Welcome’ can be a noun or verb, meaning a polite greeting or greeting someone kindly. 

Examples of ‘Welcome’ in a Sentence

‘Welcome’ is commonly used to greet people in nearly any setting. Here are a few examples: 

  • ‘Welcome’ to our special day. We are so happy you could be here to celebrate with us. 
  • ‘Welcome’ new recruits. The next few months will be challenging and rewarding. 

Definition of ‘Aboard’ 

‘Aboard’ means to get in or on something traditionally. However, there is a modern definition that means to join something. 

Examples of ‘Aboard’ in a Sentence

‘Aboard’ is rarely used solely in a business setting. It is more commonly used to describe something that happened on a boat or plane. For example: 

  • ‘Aboard’ the team, Janet was able to meet many professional and personal goals. 
  • ‘Aboard’ the vessel, the passengers enjoyed delicious meals. 

When Should You Use ‘Welcome Aboard’? 

‘Welcome aboard’ is an excellent way to greet a new employee or team member. It usually gives the impression that you are happy the person is there. 

The more formal version is ‘welcome on board,’ however, either is acceptable in a formal email or informal communication. You can feel confident about using ‘welcome on board’ or welcome aboard’ in a professional setting.

If you work in happen hospitality, you can use ‘welcome aboard’ to greet passengers while working as many other people in the industry do. However, you would only want to say it if you operate or work on a plane, train, amusement ride, boat, or something that carries passengers. 

Using ‘welcome aboard’ to greet guests at a hotel or restaurant would not be appropriate. 

Does 'Welcome On Board' Have a Different Meaning?

There is no difference between ‘welcome on board’ and ‘welcome aboard.’ Both are acceptable in most professional settings. The version you use is more of a personal preference. However, if you want to be extremely formal, ‘welcome on board’ would be a good choice. 

Examples Used in Sentences

As previously mentioned, ‘welcome aboard’ has several meanings. So, take a look at these examples.

‘Welcome Aboard’ a Ship, Ride, Plane, or Train

The hospitality industry coined the phrase ‘welcome aboard.’ Here are a few examples; 

  • Passengers on behalf of WT Airlines, the captain, the flight crew, and myself, I would like to say, ‘welcome aboard’ flight number 3035 from Houston to Las Vegas.
  • ‘Welcome aboard’ our cruise line’s most exclusive ship. 

‘Welcome Aboard’ as a Greeting 

Today, people often use ‘welcome aboard’ as a greeting in business settings. Here are a few examples: 

  • Sally, on behalf of the entire XYZ Company team, I want to say, ‘welcome aboard.’ If you have any questions or need assistance, please feel free to reach out to me. 
  • ‘Welcome aboard.’ We are happy to have you hear at XYZ Company. 

Alternative Phrases to Greet People

There are alternative greetings you can use instead. If you think that ‘welcome aboard’ just doesn’t fit, try these:

  • We are happy to have you. 
  • Welcome to the team.
  • Happy to meet you. 
  • I look forward to working with you. 
  • Nice to meet you.
  • Welcome

 Final Advise on Using ‘Welcome Aboard’ 

Idioms like 'welcome aboard' can be confusing. You hear people say them and think you know what they mean, but you may be uncomfortable using them in conversation.

It is a good idea to check before using an unfamiliar phrase because you do not want to offend someone accidentally or make yourself look bad by using a term incorrectly. Writingtips.org can help.

Bookmark the page so you can easily check the meaning the next time you are unsure of the meaning of an idiom like 'welcome aboard,' 'onwards and upwards,' or 'bane of my existence.'

 

We encourage you to share this article on Twitter and Facebook. Just click those two links - you'll see why.

It's important to share the news to spread the truth. Most people won't.

Written By:
Amy Gilmore
Amy Gilmore is one of the lead freelance writers for WritingTips.org. She has been a professional writer and editor for the past eight years. She developed a love of language arts and literature in school and decided to become a professional freelance writer after a demanding career in real estate. Amy is constantly learning to become a better writer and loves sharing tips with other writers who want to do the same.

Add new comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

WritingTips.org Newsletter
Receive information on
new articles posted, important topics, and tips.
Join Now
We won't send you spam. Unsubscribe at any time.
magnifier