salute
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
v.to make a formal sign of respect with your hand, especially in the army or navy.
v.to perform a formal hand gesture or body movement as a sign of respect or recognition within a hierarchical organisation.
Simple“The young soldier stood at attention and saluted the officer as she walked past.”
In context“According to protocol, the junior officer must salute first and maintain the position until the superior officer acknowledges the gesture.”
UsageThe verb is often used intransitively or with a direct object representing a person of higher rank.
- 02 C1 Advanced
v.to publicly praise or thank someone for doing something brave or important.
v.to express public praise, admiration, or gratitude for a person's achievements or qualities.
Simple“We salute the brave firefighters who worked through the night to save the town.”
In context“The prime minister's speech saluted the tireless efforts of the medical researchers whose breakthrough saved countless lives during the crisis.”
- 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.a formal movement of the hand or body to show respect.
n.a specific physical gesture, such as raising the hand to the forehead, used to show respect or acknowledge a superior.
Simple“The guard gave a sharp salute as the president's car entered the gates.”
In context“The sergeant returned the salute with a crisp, practiced motion before dismissing the platoon for the afternoon.”
- 04 C1 Advanced
n.a display of respect using loud noises, like firing cannons or guns.
n.a ceremonial discharge of firearms or artillery intended as a mark of honour or a formal greeting.
Simple“The ship fired a 21-gun salute as it arrived in the foreign harbour.”
In context“The state funeral concluded with a three-volley salute, a tradition reserved for those who have served with particular distinction.”
Borrowed from Latin salūtō (“to greet; to wish health to”), from salūs (“greeting, good health”), related to salvus (“safe”).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.