Kættelyn

Kættelyn is the Estonian term for the act of shaking hands, a gesture commonly used in greetings, farewells and as a sign of agreement. The noun kättely is derived from käsi, meaning hand, with the nominalizing suffix -tely, and kättelyn is its genitive form, used to refer to "the handshake" or "of the handshake." In English, the concept is usually rendered as "handshake."

Usage and etiquette: A typical kättely is brief and firm, lasting one to two seconds in most contexts. It is commonly performed when meeting colleagues, during formal introductions, after a business agreement, or when parting. Eye contact and a verbal greeting often accompany the gesture. In formal situations, gloves may be removed or adjusted before the handshake in some settings; the grip should be moderate to avoid appearing aggressive or insincere.

Cultural context: As with other handshake practices, the etiquette of kättelyn varies by country, region, and situation. In business and official settings, it signals mutual recognition and goodwill. In informal contexts, people may opt for lighter or shorter handshakes, or for alternative greetings such as a nod or wave, depending on personal preference and local norms. Health considerations or personal beliefs may affect whether a handshake is offered.

See also: Handshake, Etiquette.