sa·lute (sə-lūt')

v., -lut·ed, -lut·ing, -lutes.

v.tr.

1. To greet or address with an expression of welcome, goodwill, or respect.
2. To recognize (a superior) with a gesture prescribed by military regulations, as by raising the hand to the cap.
3. 1. To honor formally and ceremoniously.
   2. To express warm approval of; commend: salute an agency for its charity work.
4. To become noticeable to: A stench saluted our nostrils.

v.intr.
To make a gesture of greeting or respect.

n.

1. An act of greeting; a salutation.
2. 1. An act or gesture of welcome, honor, or courteous recognition: a musical salute to the composer's 90th birthday.
   2. The position of the hand or rifle or the bodily posture of a person saluting a military superior.
3. A formal military display of honor or greeting, such as the firing of cannon.

[Middle English saluten, from Latin salūtāre, from salūs, salūt-, health.]

saluter sa·lut'er n.

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The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition Copyright © 2007, 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.

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