Goodbye

Definition

Goodbye is a noun and an interjection used to express farewell when parting from someone or leaving a place. It signifies the end of an interaction or meeting.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Interjection

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌɡʊdˈbaɪ/
• Respelling: good-BY

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌɡʊdˈbaɪ/
• Respelling: good-BY

Etymology

The word "goodbye" originates from the contraction of the phrase "God be with ye," which was commonly used as a parting phrase in the 16th century. Over time, it was shortened and modified to "goodbye," retaining its farewell connotation.

Derivatives

• Goodbyes (noun, plural)
• Good-bye-ish (adjective, informal)
• Goodbye-ing (noun, rare)
• Goodbye-wave (noun)
• Goodbye-letter (noun)

Synonyms

• Farewell
• Adieu
• See you later

Antonyms

• Hello
• Welcome
• Greeting

Usage

The word "goodbye" is widely used in spoken and written communication as a way of parting, as in "She waved goodbye as the train departed." It is also used figuratively to mark the end of an era, relationship, or chapter, such as "Saying goodbye to childhood dreams."

Related Terms

• Farewell: A more formal term for goodbye.
• Parting: The action of leaving or saying goodbye.
• Adieu: A French term for goodbye, often used poetically.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A farewell or parting phrase: Used to signify the end of a conversation or meeting.
  • Example: "He said his final goodbye before leaving for the airport."
• An instance of leaving or ending something: Refers to the act of departing or concluding.
  • Example: "The emotional goodbye brought tears to everyone's eyes."

Interjection

• Used to express farewell: Often said when leaving or concluding an interaction.
  • Example: "Goodbye, see you tomorrow!"