What does salvo mean?
A salvo is a concentrated burst or discharge. In its literal military sense, it refers to several shots, missiles, or pieces of artillery fired at the same time. The word can also describe a figurative outpouring of criticism, applause, laughter, or questions: an audience may respond with a salvo of applause, while a controversial proposal may provoke a salvo of objections. In military ceremony, a salvo can be fired as a formal salute or expression of honor. As a verb, “salvo” means to fire such a simultaneous discharge. The expression suggests force, impact, and concentration: everything arrives together in a brief and emphatic burst. Although most often associated with weapons, the word is fully natural in political, journalistic, and cultural contexts when describing an intense response.
A simultaneous discharge of shots or missiles, especially from multiple weapons or artillery pieces.
"The battery fired a salvo across the harbor."
Also used figuratively for a sudden, concentrated outburst of criticism, applause, or questions.
To fire a simultaneous discharge of shots or missiles.
"The gun crews salvoed the shore positions."
Relatively uncommon compared with the noun, but firmly established in military contexts.
The standard plural is salvos.
"Several salvos were exchanged before the ships withdrew."
A salvo delivers everything at once: a burst of gunfire, a barrage of questions, or an avalanche of applause.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does salvo come from?
The noun entered English in the early 17th century through French, from Italian salva in the sense of a simultaneous military discharge. Italian in turn drew on Latin salvere, “to be well” or “to be safe,” through the salutation salve. The verb developed later from the established military noun.
Related word forms
How salvo is actually used
The military sense is standard in British and American English. In figurative use, a salvo is generally sudden and concentrated, and it often has an emphatic or confrontational tone when referring to criticism or complaints.
Easily confused with salvo
A salvo is a simultaneous discharge of weapons or a figurative outburst, whereas a salve is an ointment or soothing remedy.