German word

grüßen

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈgʁyːsən/

Meaning

  • verbsay hello to

Example

Ich grüße dich.

I say hello to you.

Illustration for grüßen (say hello to)

More examples

Er grüßt den Gastgeber per Handschlag.

He greets the host with a handshake.

Core concept

A greeting reaches another person directly or carries friendly regards from someone absent.

Common phrases

  • jemanden freundlich grüßen

    greet someone in a friendly manner

  • per Handschlag grüßen

    greet by shaking hands

Similar words

begrüßen: To formally welcome someone on arrival or at a gathering.
ansprechen: To address someone to start a conversation.
winken: To wave at someone as a greeting or signal.
anlächeln: To smile at someone to show friendliness.

Definition in German

Jemanden mit einem Grußwort oder einer Geste begrüßen.

Word origin

The verb comes from the Germanic root behind Old High German gruozjan, later becoming Middle High German grüezen and modern German grüßen.

Usage tips

  • Grüß Gott is a regional greeting formula, especially in southern German-speaking areas, and does not simply mean a religious salute in every use.

Other meanings

  • send regardsverb
  • saluteverb

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word