salutation

noun

sal·​u·​ta·​tion ˌsal-yə-ˈtā-shən 

1

a

: an expression of greeting, goodwill, or courtesy by word, gesture, or ceremony

b

salutations plural : regards

2

: the word or phrase of greeting (such as Gentlemen or Dear Sir or Madam) that conventionally comes immediately before the body of a letter

salutational

ˌsal-yə-ˈtā-shnəl 

-shə-nᵊl

adjective

Synonyms

• accolade
• citation
• commendation
• dithyramb
• encomium
• eulogium
• eulogy
• homage
• hymn
• paean
• panegyric
• tribute

Examples of salutation in a Sentence

A handshake and saying “hello” are common salutations.

Shaking hands is a form of salutation.

Recent Examples on the Web

The only surviving note from Dickinson to her father was written just before his death—and is blank: Dear Father— Emily— Between the salutation and the signature, the editors point out, are two pinholes. —Kamran Javadizadeh, The New Yorker, 21 Aug. 2024

There is even a gym on a lower floor, as well as yoga mats for sunrise sun salutations, bluetooth speakers and daily maid service. —Jenny Southan, Condé Nast Traveler, 27 July 2024

The varieties of headbutting that form a lamb’s language of salutation. —Harper's Magazine, 25 June 2024

The salutation sparked an argument, then fisticuffs as the suspects punched the victim in the face and body, according to cops. —Thomas Tracy, New York Daily News, 6 Jan. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

salutation

noun

sal·​u·​ta·​tion ˌsal-yə-ˈtā-shən 

1

: an expression of greeting, goodwill, or courtesy

2

: the word or phrase of greeting that begins a letter

salutational

-shnəl 

-shən-ᵊl

adjective