1. "Howdy"
* The most common theory is that "hi" is a shortened form of "how do you do?" This greeting was often shortened to "howdy" and then further contracted to "hi."
2. "Hiya"
* Another theory suggests "hi" comes from "hiya," a shortened form of "how are you."
3. "Holà"
* Some believe "hi" originated from the Spanish greeting "hola" (pronounced "oh-la"). This theory is less likely, as "hola" entered English much later than "hi."
4. "Hoi"
* A less likely theory, but one that has been suggested, is that "hi" derives from the German exclamation "hoi," which is similar in meaning to "hey."
Timeline:
* "Howdy" was a popular greeting in the 18th and 19th centuries, making it a plausible origin for "hi."
* "Hi" began appearing in print in the early 19th century.
* "Hiya" also emerged in the 19th century.
While the exact origin of "hi" is uncertain, it's safe to say that it evolved from a shortened form of a longer greeting.