Handshake

A handshake is a short ritual, where both right or left hands briefly grasp each other, usually done when two people meet or depart, or complete an agreement. Its purpose is to demonstrate good will, and it has possibly originated as a gesture to show that the hand holds no weapons.

Photograph Courtesy of Classroom Clipart

Generally it is considered inappropriate to reject a handshake, and in most social circles it is expected that the one with higher social status will initiate it. To offer the left hand instead of the right was once considered an insult.

Handshake is originally a Western European tradition, brought into practice in its present form by English Quakers in 17th century as a more egalitarian and simpler alternative to the complex greeting etiquette of the contemporary higher social classes.

Today handshake is known and practiced throughout the world, though in many cultures alternative customs for greeting, such as bowing or cheek kissing are still preferred.