valedictorian

noun

val·​e·​dic·​to·​ri·​an ˌva-lə-ˌdik-ˈtȯr-ē-ən How to pronounce valedictorian (audio)
: the student usually having the highest rank in a graduating class who delivers the valedictory address at the commencement exercises

Examples of valedictorian in a Sentence

She was the valedictorian of her class in 1985.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Meet the valedictorians and salutatorians from Broward County high schools. Kari Barnett, Sun Sentinel, 19 June 2025 Kolb, 18, the class valedictorian, credits much of her success earning a 3.8 grade point average to her teachers — math instructor Adam Vickery, construction teacher Nicholas Jordan and science teacher John Chan. Julie Gallant, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 June 2025 Several students also criticized the administration’s decision to not name a valedictorian — or let that person speak. Daniel Miller, Los Angeles Times, 16 May 2025 After becoming her high school's valedictorian, Piphus performed ventriloquism with the puppet George, a snarky 11-year-old boy, for her graduation. Brad Schmitt, The Tennessean, 2 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for valedictorian

Word History

Etymology

valedictor(y) + -ian

First Known Use

1759, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of valedictorian was in 1759

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Valedictorian.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/valedictorian. Accessed 24 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

valedictorian

noun
vale·​dic·​to·​ri·​an
ˌval-ə-ˌdik-ˈtōr-ē-ən,
-ˈtȯr-
: the student usually of the highest rank in a graduating class who gives the farewell speech at graduation ceremonies

More from Merriam-Webster on valedictorian

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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