Background for hello

hello

/həˈləʊ/ /həˈloʊ/

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noun

"Hello!" or an equivalent greeting.

Examples :

""Hello" was the first word spoken by Sarah as she entered the classroom. "

communication language word sign essential

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verb

To greet with "hello".

Examples :

"The teacher helloed the class at the start of the lesson. "

language communication word essential

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interjection

A greeting (salutation) said when meeting someone or acknowledging someone’s arrival or presence.

Examples :

"Hello, everyone."

communication language linguistics essential

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interjection

A greeting used when answering the telephone.

Examples :

"Hello? How may I help you?"

communication language essential

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interjection

A call for response if it is not clear if anyone is present or listening, or if a telephone conversation may have been disconnected.

Examples :

"Hello? Is anyone there?"

language communication linguistics sound word exclamation essential

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interjection

Used sarcastically to imply that the person addressed or referred to has done something the speaker or writer considers to be foolish.

Examples :

"You just tried to start your car with your cell phone. Hello?"

language communication attitude word exclamation essential

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interjection

An expression of puzzlement or discovery.

Examples :

"Hello! What’s going on here?"

communication language linguistics exclamation essential