handshake

UK: ˈhændʃeɪk | US: ˈhændʃeɪk

Definition
  1. n. a customary greeting or agreement gesture where two people clasp and shake each other's hands

  2. n. (computing) an initial communication protocol between devices to establish connection

Structure
hand <part of the body>shake <move briskly>
Etymology

The word "handshake" is a transparent compound formed from "hand" (Old English hand, meaning the body part) and "shake" (Old English sceacan, meaning to move forcefully or briskly). It emerged in the early 19th century to describe the physical gesture of clasping and shaking hands, symbolizing agreement, greeting, or mutual respect. The computing sense (protocol establishment) metaphorically extends this idea of initial connection.

Examples
  1. A firm handshake is often seen as a sign of confidence.

  2. The two leaders exchanged a handshake before the meeting.

  3. The devices completed their handshake and began transferring data.

  4. She avoided his handshake, signaling her displeasure.

  5. In some cultures, a handshake is accompanied by a slight bow.