1. (v. t.) To address, as with expressions of kind wishes and courtesy; to greet; to hail.

2. (v. t.) Hence, to give a sign of good will; to compliment by an act or ceremony, as a kiss, a bow, etc.

3. (v. t.) To honor, as some day, person, or nation, by a discharge of cannon or small arms, by dipping colors, by cheers, etc.

4. (v. t.) To promote the welfare and safety of; to benefit; to gratify.

5. (n.) The act of saluting, or expressing kind wishes or respect; salutation; greeting.

6. (n.) A sign, token, or ceremony, expressing good will, compliment, or respect, as a kiss, a bow, etc.

7. (n.) 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.