здарова

Meaning

здарова is an informal Russian greeting meaning “hey,” “hi,” or “what’s up?”

Context and tone

It is very casual and is mainly used between friends, classmates, or peers. Avoid it in formal situations, with strangers, or when speaking to someone you need to address politely.

A more standard casual form is здорово здорово.

Related expressions

• привет — hi; the usual informal greeting
• здравствуй / здравствуйте — hello; more neutral or polite
• дарова — an even more reduced, slang-like version of здорово
• хай — “hi,” borrowed from English and used in youth slang

Background

It comes from здорово, historically connected with the idea of wishing someone health, like other greetings related to “health.” In modern speech, it functions simply as a friendly greeting.

Examples

1. Здарова, как дела? — Hey, how are you?
2. Здарова! Давно не виделись. — Hi! Long time no see.
3. Он написал мне: «Здарова, ты сегодня свободен?» — He texted me: “Hey, are you free today?”
4. Здарова, ребята, начинаем игру? — Hey, guys, shall we start the game?
5. Я встретил друга и сказал: «Здарова!» — I met a friend and said, “Hi!”