WAVE GOODBYE Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "wave goodbye" refers to a physical gesture made with the hand or hands, typically as a way of bidding farewell to someone or something. This action involves extending the arm and rapidly moving the hand back and forth, producing a waving motion. It is commonly used when parting with someone who is about to leave or when someone is departing from a specific location.
The act of waving goodbye is often accompanied by a friendly smile or a verbal expression of farewell. It can convey a sense of warmth, affection, and politeness. This gesture is deeply ingrained in many cultures and is considered a universally recognized sign of departure and a non-verbal way to communicate a parting message.
"Wave goodbye" can be employed in various contexts, such as when someone leaves for work, school, or a journey, or when saying goodbye to friends or family after spending time together. It can also be used figuratively to describe the act of relinquishing or letting go of something, as in "He waved goodbye to his old lifestyle."
Overall, "wave goodbye" encompasses the physical action of waving the hand to bid farewell, expressing goodwill, and concluding an encounter or experience. It represents a simple yet effective form of non-verbal communication for expressing goodbyes in countless interpersonal situations.
Etymology of WAVE GOODBYE
The word "wave" in the context of saying goodbye is derived from the Middle English word "waven", which means "to beckon, motion, or move to and fro". This Middle English word is further rooted in the Old English word "wafian", which means "to wave the hands". The act of waving one's hand as a gesture of farewell has been recorded since the 17th century. Thus, the phrase "wave goodbye" simply combines the verb "wave" with the term "goodbye" to express the action of bidding farewell by making a waving motion with one's hand.
Idioms with the word WAVE GOODBYE
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kiss/say/wave goodbye to sth
To "kiss/say/wave goodbye to something" means to accept that something is ending or coming to an end, and to acknowledge or bid farewell to it. It often signifies letting go of something or someone, and moving on from a situation.
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wave goodbye to (someone or something)
The idiom "wave goodbye to (someone or something)" means to bid farewell or say goodbye to someone or something, often in a symbolic or final manner. It can also imply separating from or losing contact with someone or something.
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wave goodbye to (something)
The idiom "wave goodbye to (something)" means to accept that something is ending or no longer possible and to acknowledge this fact by saying goodbye or by letting go of it. It can also imply that something is disappearing or coming to an end.
