Noah Webster
Farewell
FA'REWELL, a compound of fare, in the imperative, and well. Go well; originally applied to a person departing, but by custom now applied both to those who depart and those who remain. It expresses a kind wish, a wish of happiness to those who leave or those who are left.
The verb and adverb are often separated by the pronoun; fare you well; I wish you a happy departure; may you be well in your absence.
It is sometimes an expression of separation only. farewell the year; farewell ye sweet groves; that is, I take my leave of you.
FA'REWELL, noun
1. A wish of happiness or welfare at parting; the parting compliment; adieu.
2. Leave; act of departure.
And takes her farewell of the glorious sun.
Before I take my farewell of the subject.