What does "greeting" mean?

1. (saying hello) something you say or do to welcome someone or say hello. 2. (opening of a letter) the words you use at the beginning of a letter or email, like 'Dear Sam'. 3. (a message of good wishes) a message that sends good wishes, often found in a card.

How do you use "greeting"?

Often used in the plural form 'greetings' in cards or formal messages.

greeting

US //ˈɡɹitɪŋ// UK //ɡɹˈiːtɪŋ// greet·ing

1 saying hello (n.)
A1 Beginner

something you say or do to welcome someone or say hello.

a polite word or sign of welcome or recognition.

Example

She gave me a warm greeting when I arrived at her house.

Example

The host offered a formal greeting to each guest as they entered the ballroom, ensuring everyone felt acknowledged before the ceremony began.
- salutation
- welcome
- hello
- farewell
- goodbye
2 opening of a letter (n.)
B1 Intermediate

the words you use at the beginning of a letter or email, like 'Dear Sam'.

the conventional phrase used to open a written communication.

Example

The greeting in a business email should usually be professional.

Example

Choosing an appropriate greeting for a cover letter is essential, as 'To whom it may concern' can sometimes feel too impersonal for modern recruiters.
- salutation
- sign off
- valediction

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3 a message of good wishes (n.)
A2 Elementary

a message that sends good wishes, often found in a card.

an expression of good wishes or regards, typically pluralised when sent via a card or message.

Example

We sent our birthday greetings to him by mail.

Example

The card contained seasonal greetings from the entire department, wishing the retired professor a peaceful winter holiday.

Usage

Often used in the plural form 'greetings' in cards or formal messages.
- regards
- wishes

Origin

By surface analysis, greet + -ing.