Do You Know Why We Say ‘Hello’ When Answering Phone Call? The Surprising History Will Surprise You

History of Hello Word: The first thing you normally say when you pick up the phone is "Hello." We never give it much thought as to where it originated or why we say it, because it's such a common practice. Did you know, however, that this simple greeting has an interesting backstory that begins with the development of the telephone itself?

The term "hello" was never intended for use in phone conversations. Actually, it gained popularity as a result of a dispute between Thomas Edison and Alexander Graham Bell, two of the most well-known inventors in history. Edison's suggestion to begin a phone call with "Hello" eventually became the standard greeting, even though Bell had his own preferred greeting.

Let’s explore how this ordinary word turned into one of the most spoken greetings in the world and how it became forever linked to the way we communicate through phones.

The Beginning Of ‘Hello’

History of Hello word (Image: Canva)

The word "hello" wasn't used before the invention of the telephone. To attract someone's attention, especially when they were far away, people in the 1800s would say "hullo" or "hallo." Instead of using a courteous greeting, it was more like "Hey!" or "Are you there?"

ALSO READ: Which Is The First Cashless Country In The World? Know A Fun Fact About This European Nation

People needed a common word to start conversations when Alexander Graham Bell created the telephone in 1876. But Bell liked to say "Ahoy!" which is a word sailors use to signal ships. However, Thomas Edison, another well-known inventor, soon proposed using the word "Hello."

How Thomas Edison Made ‘Hello’ Famous?

In 1880, one of the first telephone directories was published, and it advised users to begin calls with "Hello." It was the first example of what we now consider to be appropriate phone etiquette. "Hello" also evolved into a casual greeting that is used in everyday situations, not only on the phone.

ALSO READ: Did You Know Who Made The World’s First Mobile Phone? It's Not Alexander Graham Bell- Check Who And When!

Interesting Facts About The Word ‘Hello’

* The first recorded use of “Hello” was found in the 1820s.

* Thomas Edison is often credited with popularising the word for phone use.

* Alexander Graham Bell’s “Ahoy” never caught on despite his efforts.

* Today, “Hello” is one of the most recognised words in the world, used in over 100 countries in some form.