Salve
Latin, one person
In Latin you greet one person with Salve and several people with Salvete. The ancient Greek greeting is Χαῖρε (chaire). It is also called Ave.
Meaning: greeting (phrase)
Ways to say it
| Latin | Note |
|---|---|
| Salve | Latin, one person |
| Salvete | Latin, several people |
| Ave | Latin, formal |
Salve comes from the idea of good health. Ave is a more formal greeting, and Romans often used it when meeting someone they honored.
Which one should you use?
Latin changes the greeting for the number of people, with Salve for one and Salvete for more. Ancient Greek does the same, with Χαῖρε (chaire) for one and Χαίρετε (chairete) for several.
When do people say it?
Both words come from older meanings, health in Latin and joy in Greek, so each greeting works as a wish for the other person.
Did you know?
- The Latin Ave is also the first word of the prayer Ave Maria.
Examples in context
- Salve, amice.Hello, friend.
Example conversation
Marcus greets his friends Lucia and Gaius in the forum.
- MarcusSalvete, amici.Hello, friends.
- LuciaSalve, Marce.Hello, Marcus.
- GaiusSalve, Marce. Quid agis?Hello, Marcus. How are you?
