greetings
/ˈɡriːtɪŋz/noun★Beginner
formalinformal
Words or gestures used to welcome or acknowledge someone, often when meeting or parting.
She offered warm greetings to all the guests at the party.
The host exchanged polite greetings with the new neighbors.
💡
Greetings can range from casual (e.g., 'hi') to formal (e.g., 'good morning, sir').
Collocations
exchange greetingsto mutually greet someonewarm greetingsfriendly and enthusiastic greetingsformal greetingspolite and respectful greetings
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related Phrases
greetings and salutationsphrase
a formal or humorous way to say hello
💡Pro Tip
Cultural Awareness
Learn common greetings in the local language when traveling to show respect.
⚡Gold Rule
Appropriate Context
Use formal greetings in professional settings and informal ones with friends.
📖Word Origin
From Middle English 'gretings,' from Old English 'grēting,' meaning 'act of greeting,' from 'grētan' (to greet).
📝Usage Notes
Greetings are culturally specific; some cultures value physical contact (e.g., hugs, handshakes), while others prefer verbal or bowing gestures.
Word Breakdown
greet
to welcome or address someone
root-ings
indicates an action or state
suffixEnglish Dictionary