# greeting

/ˈɡɹitɪŋ/ (US) · /ɡɹˈiːtɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/greeting
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. saying hello

noun · CEFR A1

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

For teachers: a polite word or sign of welcome or recognition.

- She gave me a warm greeting when I arrived at her house.
- The host offered a formal greeting to each guest as they entered the ballroom, ensuring everyone felt acknowledged before the ceremony began.

### 2. opening of a letter

noun · CEFR B1

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

For teachers: the conventional phrase used to open a written communication.

- The greeting in a business email should usually be professional.
- Choosing an appropriate greeting for a cover letter is essential, as 'To whom it may concern' can sometimes feel too impersonal for modern recruiters.

### 3. a message of good wishes

noun · CEFR A2

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

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

- We sent our birthday greetings to him by mail.
- 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.

## Examples

- He gave me a warm greeting when I arrived.
- The receptionist offered a professional greeting to every client who walked through the door.
- In many cultures, a formal greeting involves specific physical gestures that signify respect for the other person's social standing or age.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.