greeting

noun

greet·​ing ˈgrē-tiŋ 

1

: a salutation at meeting

2

: an expression of good wishes : regards

—usually used in plural

holiday greetings

Synonyms

• hello
• salutation
• salute
• welcome

Examples of greeting in a Sentence

He addressed the members of the delegation with a formal greeting.

the volunteer directed the conference participants towards the coffee after offering them a cheerful greeting

Recent Examples on the Web

Cards with holiday greetings hang in a prominent position above a table of sweets that included this year candied pecans, cookies, assorted fruit, nutty breads and a temptingly iced cake. —Michael Barnes, Austin American-Statesman, 24 Dec. 2024

Getting holiday greetings in the mail, even from strangers, can be truly uplifting, says Bert Smith, who lives in Austin, Texas. —Hilary Shenfeld, People.com, 24 Dec. 2024

The Magic Kingdom dropped its pomp greeting to fans for its nightly fireworks display. —Meg James, Los Angeles Times, 23 Dec. 2024

Pope Francis arrives to exchange the season's greetings with Vatican employees, in the Paul VI Hall at the Vatican, Saturday, Dec. 21, 2024. —CBS News, 21 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing greeting

• greeting card
• in greeting

Kids Definition

greeting

noun

greet·​ing

1

: salutation

2

: an expression of good wishes : regards

—usually used in plural