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Greet Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ‘‹
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greet

[ษกriหt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

formal

To address with some form of salutation; to receive or welcome with an expression of good will or courtesy.

Synonyms

acknowledge, salute, welcome.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
greet

Used when meeting someone for the first time or when encountering someone you know. Often involves verbal or physical actions like saying 'hello' or shaking hands.

  • She greeted her friend with a big smile and a hug.
  • He was greeted warmly by his colleagues on his first day at work.
welcome

Used when someone arrives or joins a group. It can also be used to make someone feel included and comfortable. It has a warm and inviting tone.

  • They welcomed the guests with open arms.
  • She was welcomed into the community with a small party.
salute

Used in a formal or military context to show respect or honor, often with a specific gesture. It has a more ceremonial or official tone.

  • The soldiers saluted their commanding officer.
  • He was saluted as a hero at the ceremony.
acknowledge

Used to show recognition or acceptance of someone's presence, often with a simple gesture or a few words. It can also mean to show awareness of a situation or information.

  • He nodded to acknowledge her presence.
  • The company acknowledged the receipt of the complaint.

Examples of usage

  • I greeted my guests at the door.
  • The team greeted their coach with cheers and applause.
  • As they walked by, they greeted each other with a smile.
Context #2 | Noun

informal

A polite word or sign of welcome or recognition.

Synonyms

acknowledgment, salutation, welcome.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
greet

This word is used when someone meets another person and offers them a friendly or polite word or gesture to acknowledge their presence. It's often used in formal and informal settings.

  • She always greets her neighbors with a big smile.
  • When you enter a room, it's polite to greet everyone.
welcome

This word is used to show that you are happy about someoneโ€™s arrival or presence. It can be used in both formal and informal settings, often in hospitality contexts.

  • They were warmly welcomed by the host.
  • The city is known for its welcoming atmosphere.
salutation

This is a formal term often used when addressing someone in a letter or formal speech. It's suitable in formal settings where a high level of respect or tradition is expected.

  • The letter began with the salutation 'Dear Sir or Madam'.
  • He offered a formal salutation before beginning his speech.
acknowledgment

This word is appropriate when you recognize someoneโ€™s presence or contribution. It can be used in both professional and casual conversations.

  • He nodded in acknowledgment of their hard work.
  • A simple acknowledgment of her efforts would have been nice.

Examples of usage

  • She gave a friendly greet to her neighbor.
  • The greeting card had a beautiful design.
  • He responded with a warm greet and a handshake.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Practices

  • Different cultures have unique ways of greeting, such as bowing in Japan or cheek kissing in some European countries.
  • In some Indigenous cultures, greeting rituals include sharing a peace pipe or a handshake, symbolizing respect and unity.
  • Greeting customs can reflect social status, with formal greetings used in professional settings compared to informal ones among friends.

Psychology

  • Greeting someone can trigger the release of oxytocin, a hormone that promotes social bonding and trust.
  • Research shows that a warm greeting can create a positive first impression and enhance future interactions.
  • The act of greeting can set the tone for social interactions, impacting everything from group dynamics to individual happiness.

Pop Culture

  • Catchphrases like 'Whatโ€™s up?' or 'Howโ€™s it going?' have become popular greetings in movies and TV shows, creating a casual, friendly atmosphere.
  • The iconic phrase 'Hello' from Adele's song gained immense popularity, making it synonymous with reconnecting and greeting.
  • Popular greeting memes often humorously depict awkward or unexpected interactions, showcasing the ups and downs of social encounters.

Literature

  • In classic literature, characters often use greetings to signify relationships or social standing, setting the scene for interactions.
  • Shakespeare's plays frequently feature elaborate greetings that reflect character traits and social hierarchies.
  • Modern novels sometimes explore the importance of greetings, highlighting their role in establishing characters' emotions and intentions.

Origin of 'greet'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English 'grฤ“tan', meaning 'to approach or address'.
  • It has roots in Proto-Germanic languages, reflecting a shared custom of social acknowledgement.
  • Related words in other languages include the French 'saluer' and the German 'grรผรŸen', which also mean to greet.

The word 'greet' has Old English origins, coming from the word 'gretan' which meant 'to come together, meet, offer, express.' Over time, the meaning evolved to include expressions of welcome and acknowledgment. The usage of 'greet' has remained consistent in English, retaining its core meaning of showing goodwill and courtesy.

See also: greeting, greetings.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,184, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.