Heil
/haɪl/noun
A German word meaning 'hail' or 'salute', often used in a ceremonial context.
Did you know?The term 'Heil' was historically used in various Germanic contexts to invoke health or prosperity, but it became notorious for its association with Nazi propaganda.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*gʰei-
“to rejoice or to greet with joy.”
Old High German
OHG
heilen
“to make whole or to heal.”
Middle High German
MHG
heilen
“to salute or to greet.”
Modern German
German
Heil
“salutation or greeting, often used in a formal or ceremonial context.”