This phrase implies a positive feeling of happiness or relief when greeting someone. After years abroad, he returned home and was received with open arms.
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Widely Used
Common in everyday English, used in social and informal settings, but also found in formal writing. The author's new book was met with open arms by her fans.
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Figurative Speech
It's a metaphorical expression; you don't have to physically open your arms. Our proposal was accepted with open arms.