n. & v.
n. 1 the rescue of a ship, its cargo, or other property, from loss at sea, destruction by fire, etc. 2 the property etc. saved in this way. 3 a the saving and utilization of waste paper, scrap material, etc. b the materials salvaged. 4 payment made or due to a person who has saved a ship or its cargo.
v.tr. 1 save from a wreck, fire, etc. 2 retrieve or preserve (something favourable) in adverse circumstances (tried to salvage some dignity). salvageable adj. salvager n.
[ F f. med.L salvagium f. L salvare SAVE(1) ]