salutations

/ˌsæljuˈteɪʃənz/
nounIntermediate💡 formal greetings
formal

A formal or polite greeting, often used in writing or formal speech.

He began his speech with a few brief salutations.

He started his speech by greeting the audience politely.

The letter opened with the usual salutations.

The letter began with standard polite greetings.

💡

Often used in formal letters, speeches, or ceremonies.

Collocations

exchange salutationsto greet each other formallyoffer salutationsto give a formal greeting

Related Phrases

return salutationsphrase
to respond to a greeting

💡Pro Tip

Formal vs. Informal

Use 'salutations' in formal writing or speeches, not in casual conversation.

📖Word Origin

From Middle French 'salutation,' from Latin 'salutatio,' meaning 'greeting,' from 'salutare' (to greet).

📝Usage Notes

More common in formal or written contexts than in casual speech.

Word Breakdown

salut
greeting
root
+
-ation
the act of
suffix
English Dictionary