salutev. t.[L. salutare, salutatum, from salus, -utis, health, safety. See Salubrious.]1. To address, 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. (Mil. & Naval) To honor, as some day, person, or nation, by a discharge of cannon or small arms, by dipping colors, by cheers, etc.()4. To promote the welfare and safety of; to benefit; to gratify.(Shak.)n.[Cf. F. salut. See Salute, v.]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.(Tennyson.)3. (Mil. & Naval) 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 colors or the topsails, etc.()