Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary
hello (noun)an expression or gesture of greeting - used interjectionally in greeting, in answering the telephone, or to express surprise
Merriam-Webster Online Thesaurus
hello (noun)an expression of goodwill upon meeting
SYNONIMS:
greeting, salutation, salute, welcomeRELATED WORDS:
ave, hail; amenities, civilities, pleasantries; regards, respects, wishes