handshake

[hand-sheyk]

noun

1. a gripping and shaking of right hands by two individuals, such as to symbolize greeting, congratulation, agreement, or farewell.

   It was a verbal contract, sealed with a firm handshake.

2. Computers.,  Also handshaking. an exchange of predetermined signals between networked or linked devices that is made when a connection is initially established or at intervals during data transmission in order to assure proper synchronization (also used attributively).

   A successful handshake is required between the server and client before the application will launch.

   Two handshake signals are exchanged between the computer and the printer—one from each device.

handshake

/ ˈhændˌʃeɪk /

noun

1. the act of grasping and shaking a person's hand, as when being introduced or agreeing on a deal

Word History and Origins

Origin of handshake¹

First recorded in 1870–75; hand + shake

Idioms and Phrases

see golden handshake.

Example Sentences

She remembers the “thousands of handshakes and hugs and home-cooked meals” and nights spent sleeping on floors.

From Los Angeles Times

The pressure was high during Bread Week as the bakers vied for a Paul Hollywood handshake after making a variety of, well, bread.

From Salon

Alvarez pushed Crawford as tempers flared at in New York in June, but the two shared a nod and handshake to end on a respectful note.

From BBC

There were also selfies and handshakes with patients, staff and volunteers at the hospital who had come to see the royal visitor.

From BBC

President Xi welcomed Kim with a long handshake, then moved on to greet Putin, before all three walked together to watch the parade.

From BBC

Related Words

• arrangement 
• bargain 
• bond 
• commitment 
• guarantee 
• obligation 
• pact 
• pledge 
• record 
• settlement