HIGH FIVE Meaning and
Definition
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High five is a colloquial term that refers to a celebratory gesture of slapping hands with someone, usually between two individuals, where both raise one hand and slap their palms together in mid-air. As a noun, it describes the act of physically making contact with someone’s open hand, typically accompanied by an audible sound. As a verb, it refers to the action of initiating this gesture.
This lighthearted expression can convey various emotions such as joy, excitement, satisfaction, or approval. It is commonly used to celebrate achievements, success, mutual agreement, or simply as a way of showing support or camaraderie. The high five is often considered an informal and friendly way of expressing positive sentiments.
Originating in the United States during the 1970s, the high five gained widespread popularity as a common gesture in sports, particularly basketball and baseball. Initially, it was used mainly among athletes to celebrate victory or remarkable plays. However, it quickly transcended the realm of sports and became a widely recognized form of celebration, extending beyond athletic events to various social contexts.
The high five is typically performed by extending one arm and hand while the other person reciprocates the gesture by doing the same. The two individuals then meet with their palms facing each other, fingers spread apart, and execute a synchronized, firm clap. Sometimes, additional variations like low fives or jumping high fives are also employed to add flair and enthusiasm to the gesture.
Common Misspellings for HIGH FIVE
- gigh five
- bigh five
- nigh five
- jigh five
- uigh five
- yigh five
- hugh five
- hjgh five
- hkgh five
- hogh five
- h9gh five
- h8gh five
- hifh five
- hivh five
- hibh five
- hihh five
- hiyh five
- hith five
- higg five
Etymology of HIGH FIVE
The etymology of the phrase "high five" is believed to be rooted in American sports culture, particularly in the realm of basketball. The term "high five" emerged in the 1970s, gaining popularity during the heyday of the American basketball league, the National Basketball Association (NBA). It was during this time that the gesture became known as the "high five".
The word "high" refers to the raised hand position when executing the gesture, with both individuals raising their hands high above their heads and slapping the palms together, usually in celebration or as a way to congratulate one another.
While the exact origin of the term is not definitively known, it is commonly attributed to basketball players Lamont Sleets and Wiley Brown, who were members of the Louisville Cardinals during the 1978-1979 collegiate basketball season.
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