goodbye

or good-bye

[ good-bahy ]

interjection

1. farewell (a conventional expression used at parting).

noun

, plural good·byes.

1. a farewell.

goodbye

/ ˌɡʊdˈbaɪ /

sentence substitute

1. farewell: a conventional expression used at leave-taking or parting with people and at the loss or rejection of things or ideas

noun

1. a leave-taking; parting

   they prolonged their goodbyes for a few more minutes

2. a farewell

   they said goodbyes to each other

Word History and Origins

Origin of goodbye¹

First recorded in 1565–75; contraction of God be with ye

Word History and Origins

Origin of goodbye¹

C16: contraction of God be with ye

Example Sentences

Her big numbers — “With One Look,” “As If We Never Said Goodbye” — have an otherworldly quality.

From Los Angeles Times

In one poem, Fox writes, “I want to hold your hand / hear your laugh … but now / I have to say / goodbye,” while later begging, “I will pay any price / Tell me please / what is the ransom / for her soul?”

From Los Angeles Times

In her later years, her portrayal of a devoted wife caring for a husband with dementia, including their very moving final goodbye, was deeply poignant and powerful radio.

From BBC

He could also give Trump an unconditional discharge; “basically, goodbye,” as Justice Kiesel puts it.

From BBC

The executive scribbled a few phrases — “Welcome,” “You’ve got mail,” “Files done” and “Goodbye” — onto a Post-it note and handed them to Karen, who promised recordings by the next day.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• adieu
• bye-bye