To greet someone means to welcome them or acknowledge their presence when you first see them or when they arrive. When you greet your teacher in the morning, you might say “Good morning, Ms. Johnson” or simply wave and smile. When guests arrive at your house, your family greets them at the door with hellos and handshakes or hugs.

Different cultures have different ways of greeting. In America, people often shake hands or wave. In Japan, people bow. In some countries, friends kiss each other on the cheek. The specific action varies, but the purpose remains the same: to show you've noticed someone and you're happy to see them.

A greeting is what you say or do when you greet someone. “Hello,” “Hi,” “Hey,” and “What's up?” are all common greetings. When you receive a birthday card that starts with “Happy Birthday,” that's a greeting too.