doormat

noun

door·​mat ˈdȯr-ˌmat 

1

: a mat placed before or inside a door for wiping dirt from the shoes

2

: one that submits without protest to abuse or indignities

3

: a team that regularly finishes last

Synonyms

• jellyfish
• namby-pamby
• pushover
• reed
• weakling
• wimp

Examples of doormat in a Sentence

She was tired of being a doormat and decided it was time to stand up for herself.

a doormat who always gave in to his father's demands

Recent Examples on the Web

In addition to being functional, the doormat also features a classic design that is perfect for the holiday season. —Rachel Trujillo, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Dec. 2024

The Lions, long the doormat in the division, are rolling with a league-high 11-game winning streak, having already clinched their third consecutive winning season under Dan Campbell. —Brad Biggs, Chicago Tribune, 9 Dec. 2024

Shop large area rugs, festive doormats and everything in between! Shop Ruggable deals 15. —Kasey Caminiti, USA TODAY, 26 Nov. 2024

This Peanuts doormat is an easy and not-too-scary way to add a touch of Halloween to your doorway. —Maggie Horton, Peoplemag, 7 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1665, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

doormat

noun

door·​mat -ˌmat 

: a mat placed before or inside a door for wiping dirt from the shoes