Crossword Genius

Showed rank subservience? (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

saluted

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'showed rank subservience?' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both to do with communicating as well as being past participle verbs.
Perhaps there's a link between them I don't understand?

This is the entire clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for saluted that I've seen before include "Presented arms" , "Given a tribute" , "Kissed" , "Due last (anag.)" , "Recognised with a gesture" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app