Salutatories

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A greeting or expression of goodwill directed toward others; a formal address made to an audience at the beginning of an event; a ceremonial acknowledgment intended to welcome individuals in a specific setting
2. An act of saying hello or wishing well to people; an official opening statement made during gatherings or speeches; a respectful salutation aimed at recognizing attendees in various occasions
3. The practice of extending warm wishes or regards to others; an introductory speech or message delivered at significant functions; a courteous identification aimed at making individuals feel valued during events

Etymology: The plural "salutatories" is simply the plural of "salutatory," which is a borrowing from Latin "salūtātōrius," an adjective meaning "of or pertaining to greeting." Its root is "salūs" (health, welfare), from the same ancient stem that gave us words about being well and whole. The Latin adjective was built by adding suffixes to "salūtāre," "to greet," a verb that originally carried the sense of wishing someone good health. English took the adjective directly from Latin, so "salutatory" began life as a word describing something greeting-like, the sort of thing a formal welcome would be. Over time it came to name the greeting itself, especially the opening address delivered at a ceremony, which is the sense the plural now carries for the formal opening statements at gatherings and speeches.

Synonyms: greetings, salutations, addresses, messages, toasts