hello
Translation
hello, hi
Examples
Hello, my name is Sarah.
Hello, my name is Sarah.
Hello? Is anyone there?
Hello? Is anyone there?
Hello, can you hear me?
Hello, can you hear me?
Grammar Patterns
((interjection)) used as a greeting when you meet someone Hello, nice to meet you.
((interjection)) used to begin a telephone conversation Hello, could I speak to Mr Smith?
((interjection)) used to attract someone's attention Hello? Is there anybody home?
Similar Words
Synonyms: hi, greetings, good day.
Etymology
An alteration of 'hallo', from Old High German 'hala, hola', an imperative of 'halon' (to fetch), used to hail a ferryman. Popularized by the telephone.
Memory Tips
The first word you learn in many languages. Think of Alexander Graham Bell, who suggested 'Ahoy', but Edison's preferred 'hello' won for answering the phone.