happy New Year

/ˌhæpi nu ˈjɪr/
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A wish for a joyful start to the new year.

Examples

  • Happy New Year, everyone!
  • "Happy New Year!" the neighbours shouted across the street.
  • We called our parents at midnight to say happy New Year.
  • At the party, friends hugged and wished one another happy New Year.
  • She wrote happy New Year at the end of her card.

Similar words

have a wonderful new year
best wishes for the new year

Meanings

New Year greeting

social
neutral
Said to wish someone well as a new year begins.

Examples

  • Happy New Year, everyone!
  • We called our parents at midnight to say happy New Year.
  • She wrote happy New Year at the end of her card.
  • "Happy New Year!" the neighbours shouted across the street.
  • At the party, friends hugged and wished one another happy New Year.

Similar words

Etymology

The greeting combines happy, meaning joyful, with New Year, the beginning of a calendar year.

FAQ

What does happy New Year mean?

happy New Year is a wish for the new year.

When is happy New Year used?

Said to wish someone well as a new year begins.

How do people reply to happy New Year?

Happy New Year or thank you, you too is a common reply.

Is happy New Year formal?

It suits family, friends, colleagues, and cards.

When is happy New Year said?

It is said around the turn of the year, especially at the start of a new year.

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