Greetings
ˈɡriːtɪŋz
Definitions
2 meaningsA word or phrase used to welcome someone or show recognition.
ˈɡriːtɪŋ
An expression of goodwill or politeness, typically at the start of a conversation or encounter.
The ambassador extended warm greetings to the visiting dignitaries.
💡 Simply: It's like saying 'hello' or 'hi'! It's what you say when you first meet someone or start talking to them. Imagine you're meeting a friend: 'Greetings! How are you?'
👶 For kids: When you say 'Hi!' or 'Hello!' to someone, that's a greeting!
More Examples
I sent my best greetings to the family.
The package arrived with a seasonal greeting on the outside.
How It's Used
"Offering a friendly greeting to a new acquaintance."
"Opening a letter with a formal greeting."
Plural form of 'greeting', used to convey goodwill to several people or in a formal way.
ˈɡriːtɪŋz
Plural form referring to multiple expressions of goodwill.
Christmas greetings filled my inbox.
💡 Simply: When you're sending a card to the whole family, you might write 'Happy Holidays Greetings!' It's just lots of 'hellos' all at once!
👶 For kids: When you say 'Hi!' to lots of people, you're giving greetings!
More Examples
The President sent his warmest greetings to the people of the disaster-stricken area.
We received many greetings from well-wishers.
How It's Used
"Sending holiday greetings to friends and family."
"The company extended its greetings to the new shareholders."
Idioms & expressions
Season's greetings
A common holiday greeting.
"We send season's greetings to all our clients."
With greetings
Used to close a letter or email.
"I signed off the email 'With greetings'."
From Middle English gretynge, from greet (to greet), from Old English grētan (to greet).
The term 'greetings' has been used in formal correspondence and social interactions since at least the 15th century.
Memory tip
Think of a welcoming 'greating' as a starting point for a conversation.