noun
valedictorian
val-uhd-ihk-TAWR-eern
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.”
noun
1
The top student in a graduating class, often chosen to give the farewell speech at graduation.
"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.
Common pairings
class valedictorian
valedictorian speech
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like valedictorian.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- valedictorians
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 →
valedictory speaker
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.".
