Definition

A greeting or farewell gesture where two people grasp each other's hands and often shake them up and down.

Example

They sealed their agreement with a firm handshake.

Conversation

Did you see the handshake they did at the end of the match?

Yeah, it was really sportsmanlike of them!

It made the whole event feel more friendly, don't you think?

Absolutely! A good handshake can really make a difference.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Handshake → It is formed from "hand" (from Old English "hand", meaning the end part of the arm) and "shake" (from Old English "sceacan", meaning to move back and forth). The word "handshake" refers to the act of moving hands back and forth, typically as a greeting or agreement.

Memory Tip

Think of using your 'hand' to 'shake' someone else's hand — that's how a handshake is a greeting or agreement.

Visually Confused Words