Definition

1. Interjection:
   • An expression used to greet someone: "Hullo" is a word used to say hello or to acknowledge someone's presence.
   • An exclamation of surprise: "Hullo" can also be used to express mild surprise or to check if something is noticed.
   • A telephone greeting: "Hullo" is commonly used to answer a telephone call.

Usage and Examples

• As a greeting:

  • He gave a cheerful "hullo" as he entered the room.
  • They exchanged polite hullos before starting the meeting.

• To express surprise or gain attention:

  • "Hullo! What's this?" she said, picking up the strange object.
  • "Hullo, hullo! Is anyone listening to me?"

• When answering the telephone:

  • She picked up the phone and said, "Hullo?"

Advanced Usage

• "Hullo there": A slightly more informal or friendly version of the greeting.
  • "Hullo there! I haven't seen you in ages."

Variants and Related Words

• Hello (interjection, noun): The more common and standard variant of "hullo". It shares all the same meanings.

  • She said hello to her neighbor.

• Hallo (interjection, noun): An older or alternative spelling, also used as a greeting or call for attention.

  • "Hallo! Who goes there?" called the guard.

Synonyms

• Hi: An informal greeting.
• Greetings: A more formal salutation.
• Hey: An informal exclamation to get attention or as a greeting.

Notes on Usage

"Hello" is the predominant and standard spelling in modern English. "Hullo" is considered a variant spelling and is less common. It is perfectly understandable and carries the same meanings and uses as "hello". The choice between "hello" and "hullo" is often a matter of personal or regional preference, with "hello" being universally standard.

Noun

1. an expression of greeting
   • every morning they exchanged polite hellos