salutation

noun

sal·​u·​ta·​tion ˌsal-yə-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce salutation (audio)
Synonyms of salutation
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-sh(ə-)nəl How to pronounce salutation (audio)
adjective

Synonyms of salutation

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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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
One morning we were led on a silent hike with another couple and a leader that involved sun salutations to the actual rising sun. — Kate Berlant, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Oct. 2026 Since then, numerous instructors have found ways to use a chair for adapted versions of a surprising number of traditional yoga movements, like lunging warrior poses and standing-to-lying sun salutations. — Jennifer Heimlich, Time, 20 Oct. 2026 The salutation will kick off a three-day visit that's expected to be saturated with pomp, even by White House standards. — ABC News, 23 Sep. 2026 The salutation kicks off a three-day visit that’s expected to be saturated with pomp, even by White House standards. — Michelle L. Price, Chicago Tribune, 23 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for salutation

Word History

First Known Use

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of salutation was in the 14th century

Rhymes for salutation

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Browse Nearby Words

salutary
salutation
salutatorian
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Cite this Entry

“Salutation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/salutation. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

salutation

noun
sal·​u·​ta·​tion ˌsal-yə-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce salutation (audio)
1
: an expression of greeting, goodwill, or courtesy
2
: the word or phrase of greeting that begins a letter
salutational
-shnəl How to pronounce salutation (audio)
-shən-ᵊl
adjective
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