goodbye

noun

good·​bye gu̇d-ˈbī 

gə(d)-

variants or good-bye or less commonly goodby or good-by

1

: a concluding remark or gesture at parting

—often used interjectionally

2

: a taking of leave

a tearful goodbye

Synonyms

• adieu
• au revoir
• ave
• bon voyage
• congé
• congee
• farewell
• Godspeed

Examples of goodbye in a Sentence

said our good-byes and headed for home

Recent Examples on the Web

Fox took his time in saying what felt like a long goodbye. —Jason Anderson, Sacramento Bee, 2 Feb. 2025

There is no chance that BRICS will replace the U.S. Dollar in International Trade, or anywhere else, and any Country that tries should say hello to Tariffs, and goodbye to America! —Dan Perry, Newsweek, 31 Jan. 2025

In the heartfelt pop ballad, Elena Rose and Morat narrate a relationship where every kiss feels like a bittersweet goodbye, and time together is always too short. —Griselda Flores, Billboard, 31 Jan. 2025

Henderson came back for a final goodbye a month later as part of Reggie Jackson’s Softball Classic with other former stars. —Cam Inman, The Mercury News, 30 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

alteration of God be with you

First Known Use

1575, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing goodbye

• kiss goodbye
• kiss something goodbye
• say goodbye to
• wave goodbye

Kids Definition

good-bye

noun

variants or good-by

gu̇d-ˈbī,

gəd-,

gə-

: a concluding remark at parting

—often used interjectionally

Etymology

a shortened and altered form of God be with you