Definitions for salutationˌsæl yəˈteɪ ʃən

Random House Webster's College Dictionary

sal•u•ta•tionˌsæl yəˈteɪ ʃən(n.)

something uttered, written, or done by way of greeting, welcome, recognition, etc. salutations, greetings or regards.
Category: Common Vocabulary
a word or phrase serving as the prefatory greeting in a letter or speech, as Dear Sir in a letter or Ladies and Gentlemen in a speech.
the act of saluting.

sal`u•ta′tion•al(adj.)

Princeton's WordNet

salute, salutation(noun)
an act of honor or courteous recognition
"a musical salute to the composer on his birthday"
greeting, salutation(noun)
(usually plural) an acknowledgment or expression of good will (especially on meeting)
salutation(noun)
word of greeting used to begin a letter

Wiktionary

salutation(Noun)
A greeting, salute, or address; a hello.
salutation(Noun)
The act of greeting.
salutation(Noun)
The title in your name, such as Mr, Mrs, Ms., Dr. or Rev..

Origin: From salutatio “a greeting, a wishing health to,” from saluto “wish one’s health, greet,” from salus “well-being.” Compare the greeting salve “be well.”

Webster Dictionary

Salutation(noun)
the act of saluting, or paying respect or reverence, by the customary words or actions; the act of greeting, or expressing good will or courtesy; also, that which is uttered or done in saluting or greeting