verb
hail
To call out to acknowledge someone.
She hails her neighbor from across the street each morning.
Etymology
The older word served as a wish of health in greeting. Hailing developed from giving that greeting to calling out to acknowledge or attract someone.
More examples
- We hailed a cab outside the station.
- I hail the waiter when we need the check.
- A familiar voice hailed me as I crossed the square.
Forms
hail · hails · hailed · hailing