Greeting is the act of acknowledging someone you meet or the words used to do so. Greetings vary from culture to culture and are often governed by rules of etiquette —that is, a code of behavior. A greeting may be as simple as a wave of the hand or a slight bow. An elaborate greeting might include a formal introduction. A salute is a gesture of greeting that generally expresses respect or courtesy, and is commonly used by the military.
Proper etiquette generally calls for making introductions when someone joins a group. Formal etiquette may require that people of lower status be presented first to those of higher status. For example, children may be presented to adults, employees to bosses, and students to teachers. Such an introduction often begins by addressing the person of greater status. For example, one might say, “Grandma, this is my friend Anthony from soccer camp. Anthony, this is my grandmother, Mrs. Jones.” Likewise, one might say, “Your Honor, I would like to introduce my law partner, Steven Strong. Steven, this is Judge Elena Rivera.”
When introducing somebody, one might include some information about that person. Doing so can help to encourage conversation among the people being introduced. In some cultures, introductions may be accompanied by a handshake. Proper etiquette generally calls for looking a person in the eyes and using a firm grip when shaking hands. In addition, etiquette often calls for a seated person to stand up for a greeting or introduction.
A greeting can also be the words of welcome or a salutation at the beginning of a message or letter . Friendly wishes expressed on special occasions, for example birthdays or Christmas, are another form of greeting. Some people send greeting cards to express such wishes on special occasions or to people who are far away.
