Handshake while holding own right elbow
I have recently had contact with an acquaintance from Eastern Africa (I think from Ethiopia or Somalia). When the person greeted me, she shook my hand while holding her elbow of the right arm with the left hand (see image). After this happened a few times, I figured it was not just a coincidence.
Does this gesture have any meaning?
Best Answer
As MastaBaba said, it's a sign of respect. As an Ethiopian, most of us were taught as children to hold our hand (anywhere on the forearm) when greeting elders (basically anyone older). It is considered rude to shake hands without holding one's arm, and in most cases the person (elder) will be offended. Sometimes, the person may also look down during the handshake, which is also another sign of respect.
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Why do people hold their elbow when shaking hands?
The initiator is both attempting to show an intimate connection with the receiver while, at the same time, attempting to control their movement. For example, the elbow grasp handshake conveys more intimacy and control than the wrist hold handshake, and the shoulder hold handshake conveys more than the upper arm grip.What does a forearm handshake mean?
What does the forearm handshake mean? Some researchers claim that the forearm handshake came into existence out of necessity. They say that in Roman times, people would grasp the forearm of the other person to check for concealed blades.What is submissive handshake?
The submissive handshake happens when your palm in facing up and is below the palm of the other person. This is called \u201cpalm up thrust\u201d. This makes you look submissive. Don't let the other person get an upper hand at the handshake.What does a bone crushing handshake mean?
A dominant or bone-crusher handshake can indicate that the other person is trying to take charge of the conversation. A handshake that is limp, clammy, or that is not accompanied by eye contact might indicate that the other person is anxious.How The Right Arm And Wrist Move In The Golf Swing | Hand Shake Drill
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Answer 2
Having lived in Uganda Africa for almost 8 years I think I can answer your question.
Here in Uganda its a sign of respect. I often place my hand on my elbow when shaking the hands of the elderly because I acknowledge their old age and their knowledge. It means they acknowledge you and respect you. Like @Kidus answered its considered rude to not place your other hand on some part of your forearm. Sometimes the person will nod his/her head toward the ground while shaking your hand, Its also a sign of respect and it would be disrespectful not to follow suit.
Answer 3
I think it is the respectful way of shaking hands. I assume this from reading The No 1 Ladies Detective Agency books (set in Botswana) where the main character refers to this as the proper way of shaking hands. A foreigner who shows respect by shaking hands this way goes up in the character’s estimation.
Answer 4
Just as another place where it is done, this is the standard way of shaking hands in the sport of Taekwondo. See this page for example:
Shaking Hands
A Taekwon-Do handshake is always given with two hands. With the right hand extended, place the left hand palm down under the right elbow. This is a gesture of respect and should be used at all times, even outside the dojang, when giving or receiving items, as well as when shaking hands.
Answer 5
My experience is with Nepal, transaction like paying or gifting are conducted with the right hand. Placing the left hand on the right elbow connotes greater respect or formality to the transaction. Adding the hand to elbow is like changing "Its nice to meet you" to "Its very nice to meet you" or "Thank you" to "Thank you, sir".
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