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

TikToks garnering over a million views offer ample everyday inspiration, showcasing wicker baskets, woven doormats, faux wreaths that look deceptively fresh, and warm lighting. —Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 17 June 2025

For more small-space styling solutions, read on for whimsical topiaries, spring doormats, a streamlined spin on the trendy egg chair, and more. —Miles Walls, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 Mar. 2025

Longoria's arrival at the major league level coincided with the Rays' ascent from an American League East doormat to a team that regularly participated in the postseason. —Jon Paul Hoornstra, MSNBC Newsweek, 12 May 2025

The Thunder’s rapid ascent from doormats to dynasty is the main story in that transition, but the Grizzlies’ descent matters, too. —John Hollinger, New York Times, 2 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1665, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for doormat

• begat
• bobcat
• chitchat
• ducat
• eclat
• format
• hazmat
• muskrat
• nonfat
• polecat
• thereat
• tomcat

Kids Definition

doormat

noun

door·​mat -ˌmat 

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