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goodbye

noun good·bye \ gu̇d-ˈbī , gə(d)- \
variants: or good-bye or less commonly goodby or good-by
|Updated on: 12 Jun 2018

Definition of goodbye

1 : a concluding remark or gesture at parting —often used interjectionally
2 : a taking of leave
  • a tearful goodbye

See goodbye defined for English-language learners

Recent Examples of goodbye from the Web

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'goodbye.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Origin and Etymology of goodbye

alteration of God be with you

Phrases Related to GOODBYE

Related Phrases

GOODBYE Defined for Kids

1

good-bye

interjection
variants: or good-by \gu̇d-ˈbī\

Definition of good-bye for Students

—used to express good wishes to someone who is leaving
2

good-bye

noun
variants: or good-by

Definition of good-bye for Students

: a remark made when someone is leaving

Learn More about goodbye

  1. Nglish: Translation of goodbye for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of goodbye for Arabic speakers

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