hello

heh-LOH

meaning in plain English

A friendly word you say when you see someone or start talking to them.

Picture waving and saying hello—like a friendly wave that opens a door.

for example

I walked in and said hello to my friend.

You’re walking down the street when you spot an old friend—just as you’re about to pass them, you open your mouth and out comes a bright, unmistakable 'hello.' Why do we default to that little word instead of a wave or a nod? Because 'hello' is the verbal handshake of human connection, the instant bridge between strangers and friends.