DictionarysaluteFormal greeting
noun / verb

salute

suh-LOOT/səˈluːt/

A formal expression of respect or greeting.

The guard gives a crisp salute as the captain approaches.

A Black female service member giving a crisp formal salute with straight hand at brow, dignified posture, generic uniform.
Etymology

Latin salutare literally meant “wish health to,” making a greeting an expression of goodwill. Respectful greeting developed into ceremonial recognition, including the formal military gesture.

In context

Libranima357:55
will embrace him closely, and salute him, kissing him on the cheek
Don Quixote - Cervantes (Illustrated Audiobook) Part 1 of 4

More examples

  • The officer salutes the flag before the ceremony.
  • We salute the volunteers who keep our food pantry running.
  • The ships fire a cannon salute to welcome the president.

Forms

salute · salutes · saluted · saluting

salutation noun — A formal expression of greeting or respect.

Similar words

greeting
Can be casual and need not express formal respect.
tribute
Emphasizes praise or honor rather than a formal greeting.