The 600-Year Evolution of 'Hello': From 15th Century Origins to Modern Greetings
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Summary
The article explores the 600-year-old origins and evolution of the word 'hello', tracing its first print usage 200 years ago back to 15th Century roots. It examines how the language of greetings has developed globally and what this reveals about human communication and culture, while also noting the word's appearances in popular culture through music and film.
Key quotes
· 4 pulledIt's been 200 years since the word 'hello' was first used in print – though its beginnings date back to the 15th Century.
How has the language of greetings evolved around the world - and what does it tell us about ourselves?
We use 'hello' dozens of times a day without thinking – during phone calls, emails and face-to-face encounters.
We sing it along with Adele and Lionel Richie, and we have watched it spun into moments of screen gold in Jerry Maguire and Scarface.
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