goodbye

noun

good·​bye gu̇d-ˈbī How to pronounce goodbye (audio)
gə(d)-
variants or good-bye or less commonly goodby or good-by
Synonyms of goodbyenext
1
: a concluding remark or gesture at parting
—often used interjectionally
2
: a taking of leave
a tearful goodbye
see also:
kiss goodbye

Synonyms of goodbye

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Examples of goodbye in a Sentence

said our good-byes and headed for home
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Just days after Dolly Parton's death, Carly Pearce, Jelly Roll and niece Jada Star helped Grand Ole Opry fans say goodbye in a joyful farewell. — Chris Parton, USA Today, 30 Aug. 2026 The time for my wife and me to say goodbye was fast approaching. — John Biemer, Chicago Tribune, 28 Aug. 2026 And a moonwalk, a Homeric voyage and a Pixar goodbye are all in play at the same time. — Clayton Davis, Variety, 27 Aug. 2026 Gustavo said goodbye with a four-night Hollywood Bowl extravaganza. — Jack Dolan, Los Angeles Times, 26 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for goodbye

Word History

Etymology

alteration of God be with you

First Known Use

1575, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of goodbye was in 1575

Phrases Containing goodbye

Rhymes for goodbye

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Browse Nearby Words

good book
goodbye
good cholesterol
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Cite this Entry

“Goodbye.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/goodbye. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

good-bye

noun
variants or good-by
gu̇d-ˈbī, 
gəd-, 
gə-
: a concluding remark at parting
—often used interjectionally
Etymology

a shortened and altered form of God be with you

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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