salve
[ˈsaɫ.weː]
In Latin, greetings can be expressed as salve.
Salve is a common way to say hello or greetings in Latin.
Meaning: formal way of saying "hello" (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
The word salve is an imperative form meaning be well or be healthy.
Which one should you use?
Use salve when addressing a single person, whereas salvete is used when addressing a group of people.
How does it change in a sentence?
Salve is the singular form used when addressing one person. The plural form is salvete, which is used for more than one person.
Did you know?
- In a medical context, the same root of salve appears in the English word 'salve', referring to a healing ointment applied to the skin.
- While salve is a polite greeting, the Romans also used the word ave to show higher respect or to salute a superior, such as an emperor.
- The English word 'salvation' shares the same root as salve, as both are connected to the idea of being made safe or whole.
Examples in context
- Salve!Greetings!This example shows how to use salve as a standalone greeting.Tatoeba #2306375 by soweli_Elepanto, translation #1130106 by cntrational
- Salve, amice.Greetings, friend.
- Salve, domine.Greetings, master.
Example conversation
Claudia meets Quintus in the forum.
- ClaudiaSalve, Quinte.Greetings, Quintus.
- QuintusSalve, Claudia.Greetings, Claudia.
- ClaudiaQuomodo vales?How are you?
- QuintusBene valeo.I am well.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry salve, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries salve, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
