proverb · Words worth keeping
Merry meet, merry part, merry meet again.
Merry meet, merry part, merry meet again.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
The expression wishes for a pleasant meeting, a friendly parting and another welcome encounter. It values the continuity of good company as a hope or greeting, rather than a prediction about how every relationship will develop.
Example
At the end of a reading session, the host thanks everyone for their company and offers the phrase as a welcome to a future meeting.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The repeated merry carries goodwill through meeting, parting and meeting again. In use, the phrase can acknowledge the pleasure of an occasion while looking forward to renewed company. Its force is closer to a wish than a rule for conduct or a promise that another gathering will happen. People may part sadly, need distance or be unable to return, and those circumstances do not make the earlier meeting a failure. The useful reading expresses an open welcome without imposing an obligation. It can leave a shared occasion with warmth while respecting that future contact depends on the people involved and their changing circumstances.
When to use it
Use it as a warm wish at meeting or parting when renewed company would be welcome.
Keep in mind
Keep the invitation voluntary; friendly wishes do not create an obligation to return or reconcile.
An interpretation of the words, not a claim about their earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
- Not established
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin. - Historical period
- Date unknown
- Culture
- English