Farewell is spelled with two syllables: /feər/ and /wel/. The word is pronounced with the primary stress on the first syllable (/feər/) and the secondary stress on the second syllable (/wel/). The 'a' in 'fare' is pronounced as a diphthong, starting with an 'e' sound (/eɪ/) and ending with a soft 'r' sound. The 'e' in 'well' is pronounced with a short 'e' sound (/ɛ/). The spelling of 'farewell' is derived from the Old English words 'faran' (to travel) and 'well' (in good health).
Farewell, often used as a noun or interjection, denotes the act or expression of parting, bidding adieu, or saying goodbye. It is a salutation used to acknowledge the departure of someone or to convey the speaker's wishes for a safe or prosperous journey ahead. The word "farewell" carries a tone of finality, signifying the end of a certain chapter or interaction.
As a noun, farewell can refer to a gathering or event held to honor and bid goodbye to someone, typically before their departure. These events are usually filled with speeches, well-wishes, and reminiscing about shared experiences. The term can also encompass the speech or statement made by the person leaving, expressing their gratitude, reflections, or hopes for the future.
In a broader sense, farewell encapsulates the sentiment of parting ways, whether temporarily or permanently, in various contexts. It can signify the termination of a relationship, the departure of a colleague from a workplace, or the conclusion of an era or project. Farewell often carries a mix of emotions, combining nostalgia, sadness, optimism, and hope.
Furthermore, "farewell" can also be used as an interjection, as a way to say goodbye or adieu to someone. It is a concise and sincere way to wish someone well as they depart, conveying good fortune, safe travels, or success in their future endeavors.
Overall, farewell serves as a versatile term encompassing the act, expression, or event associated with bidding adieu and acknowledging the departure of an individual or the end of an era.
• A kind wish or wish of happiness at parting; an adieu.
• Leave-taking, as farewell wishes.
• Good-bye; adieu.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "farewell" originated from Middle English, combining two separate words: "fare" and "well".
1. "Fare" is derived from the Old English word "faran", which means "to journey, go, or travel".
2. "Well" originates from the Old English word "weallan", which means "to boil or bubble".
Therefore, the combined term "farewell" essentially means "go well" or "may your journey be well". It is used to bid someone goodbye or wish them a safe journey.