The use of "hello" on the phone stems from its adoption as a standard greeting for communicating with someone remotely after the invention of the telephone. Thomas Edison is largely credited with popularizing its use.
Historical Context
- Pre-Telephone Greetings: Before the telephone, greetings like "Ahoy" (suggested by Alexander Graham Bell) were considered.
- Edison's Influence: Thomas Edison advocated for "hello" as a telephone greeting.
- Sound and Tone: "Hello" is considered more soothing and easier to understand than other potential greetings.
- Distance Communication: The telephone allowed communication with someone not physically present, creating a need for a standard opening.
Why "Hello" Became Popular
- Brevity: "Hello" is a short and simple word.
- Clarity: It's easily understood and pronounced.
- Pleasant Tone: Its sound is considered welcoming.
- Adoption: Widespread adoption cemented its place as the standard telephone greeting.
Therefore, "hello" became the standard greeting on the phone primarily because of its simplicity, clarity, pleasant sound, and the influence of Thomas Edison, aligning perfectly with the novel concept of remote communication.
