1. To recover, rescue, or save something from some danger, destruction, or difficulty or the outcome thereof. We managed to salvage the engine and rear wheels from the accident, but the rest of the car had to be sent to the junkyard. If we can salvage the flight recorder from the wreckage, we should be able to determine the cause of the accident. Some people are able to salvage their marriage from an affair, but it can be exceptionally difficult.

2. To manage to gain or maintain something from some failure or bad situation. It was a really painful breakup, but in time I was able to salvage some useful perspectives about myself from the relationship. I'll be lucky to even salvage my dignity from that disastrous meeting.