valedictorian
Valedictorian (noun) means the top student in a graduating class, often chosen to give the farewell speech at graduation. Example: “As valedictorian, she delivered a speech thanking her teachers and classmates.”
How to use valedictorian
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe student with the best grades in their graduating class, usually the one who gives the closing speech.
Word forms
valedictorians plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
As _____, she delivered a speech thanking her teachers and classmates.
Etymology
Formed in 1759 from "valedictory" (a farewell speech) plus the suffix "-an."
Synonyms
View more →Rhymes for valedictorian
See all rhymes for valedictorian →Frequently asked questions
What does “valedictorian” mean?
The word “valedictorian” means the top student in a graduating class, often chosen to give the farewell speech at graduation. In plain terms, the student with the best grades in their graduating class, usually the one who gives the closing speech.
How do you pronounce “valedictorian”?
“Valedictorian” is pronounced val-uhd-ihk-TAWR-eern (/ˌvæl.ə.dɪkˈtoɹ.i.ən/ in IPA).
How do you use “valedictorian” in a sentence?
Here is “valedictorian” used in a sentence: “As valedictorian, she delivered a speech thanking her teachers and classmates.”
What part of speech is “valedictorian”?
“Valedictorian” is a noun.
Where does the word “valedictorian” come from?
The word “valedictorian” dates back to around 1759. Formed in 1759 from "valedictory" (a farewell speech) plus the suffix "-an.".