Greet in Malayalam

Malayalam has no neutral verb for greet among these options, so the nearest is കുമ്പിടുക (kumbiduka), which means to bow the head respectfully in salutation. വന്ദിക്കുക (vandikkuka) goes further and takes in worship and reverence. Both suggest deference rather than a casual hello.

Most common translation

കുമ്പിടുക (kumbiduka)

Bow in reverence bend the head respectfully, salute, greet.

കുട്ടികൾ ഗുരുവിനെ കുമ്പിട്ടു.

kuttikal guruvine kumbittu.

The children bowed to the teacher.

All Malayalam words for “greet”

kumbiduka is the bodily act of bowing, whereas vandikkuka leans towards worship and homage.

Common questions

How do you say greet in Malayalam?

The closest is കുമ്പിടുക (kumbiduka), to bow or salute respectfully.

Is there a casual word for greeting a friend?

Not among these; both choices carry a note of reverence.