sal·u·ta·tion 
(săl′yə-tāshən)
(săl′yə-tāshən)n.
1.
a. A polite expression of greeting or goodwill.
b. salutations Greetings indicating respect and affection; regards.
2. A gesture of greeting, such as a bow or kiss.
3. A word or phrase of greeting used to begin a letter or message.
sal′u·tation·al adj.