air hug

American  

[air huhg] / ˈɛər ˌhʌg /

noun

1. the gesture of extending one’s arms as if to embrace another person (used as a greeting or expression of affection without physical contact when a physical hug is not possible or not appropriate).

---

verb (used with or without object)

1. to greet or express affection for (someone) in this way.

   With mask and gloves on, Nicole and I air hugged from a safe distance.

Etymology

Origin of air hug

First recorded in 2005–10

Example Sentences

She offers an air hug because of all the sweat, and asks Charlie whether he likes tennis.

From Washington Post • Jul. 31, 2022

She’s tried the air hug and the waving and the elbow-bumping, but sometimes, she still can’t help but go for the handshake.

From Washington Post • Apr. 14, 2022