online medical dictionary | definition of salute

1. To adress, as with expressions of kind wishes and courtesy; to greet; to hail. "I salute you with this kingly title." (Shak)

2. Hence, to give a sign of good will; to compliment by an act or ceremony, as a kiss, a bow, etc. "You have the prettiest tip of a finger . . . I must take the freedom to salute it." (Addison)

3. <astronomy> To honor, as some day, person, or nation, by a discharge of cannon or small arms, by dipping colours, by cheers, etc.

4. To promote the welfare and safety of; to benefit; to gratify. "If this salute my blood a jot."

Origin: L. Salutare, salutatum, from salus, -utis, health, safety. See Salubrious.

1. The act of saluting, or expressing kind wishes or respect; salutation; greeting.

2. A sign, token, or ceremony, expressing good will, compliment, or respect, as a kiss, a bow, etc.

3. <astronomy> A token of respect or honor for some distinguished or official personage, for a foreign vessel or flag, or for some festival or event, as by presenting arms, by a discharge of cannon, volleys of small arms, dipping the colours or the topsails, etc.

Origin: Cf. F. Salut. See Salute.

(01 Mar 1998)