Greetings

Greetings are acts or phrases used to acknowledge another person and initiate social interaction. They establish presence, convey goodwill, and set the tone for subsequent exchanges.

They include verbal expressions such as hello, hi, good morning, and how are you, as well as nonverbal gestures like handshakes, bows, waves, nods, and smiles. In many cultures, greetings combine both words and body language.

The choice of greeting depends on context, relationship, and local norms. In many Western settings, a handshake is common at first meetings; in East Asia, a bow or a slight nod is traditional, with varying degrees of formality. In parts of Europe and the Americas, cheek kisses may accompany a greeting among friends or family. Namaste or the hands pressed together is used in South Asia and parts of Southeast Asia as a sign of respect. In Arabic-speaking regions, a handshake with eye contact and a brief verbal greeting is common, with formality influenced by gender and social norms.

Greetings reflect social hierarchy and the degree of familiarity. They should be offered at the start of an interaction, with appropriate formality and language. In some situations, physical contact is avoided for privacy or health reasons.

The term greeting derives from Old English grētian, meaning to address or salute; greetings have evolved alongside social norms and communication technology, from formal courtesies to quick, casual exchanges online.

See also: Salutation.