handshakes

Handshakes are a gesture used to greet, thank, or acknowledge another person. The common form involves two people grasping each other’s right hands and moving them up and down briefly, usually one to two seconds. The grip is typically firm but not crushing, and is often paired with eye contact and a brief verbal greeting or farewell. While widely used in professional and social contexts, the exact style and appropriateness can vary by setting and culture.

Origins of the handshake are uncertain, but it is often explained as a sign of peaceful intent and a way to show one was unarmed. The practice appears in many cultures and has become especially entrenched in Western business and diplomacy from the 18th century onward, eventually becoming a global social norm. Etiquette around handshakes varies: some cultures emphasize a quick, light touch for politeness, others favor a firmer grip, and in many places greetings between men and women are governed by local norms; in some contexts, handshakes are avoided or modified in favor of bows, verbal greetings, or other contact. In professional settings, a brief, confident handshake accompanied by direct eye contact is often expected, but sensitivity to personal space, gender norms, and age or status is important. Health considerations have encouraged alternatives in some situations, especially during illness outbreaks, with options such as fist bumps, elbow bumps, or simply a verbal greeting.