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.
Gallagher’s older sister Kiara is a former all-conference softball player and was Benet’s valedictorian in 2017, so Gallagher frequently attended the school’s sporting events. Matt Le Cren, Chicago Tribune, 6 Feb. 2025 Malick graduated as valedictorian, and Emil wanted his scientifically talented son to go to M.I.T. Richard Brody, The New Yorker, 13 Jan. 2025 It's been widely reported that Mangione grew up in a successful Baltimore family, which owns two country clubs, and became the valedictorian of the Gilman School, a private all-boys elementary and secondary school. Maria Aspan, NPR, 10 Dec. 2024 Keys was valedictorian of her class at Madeira High School in Cincinnati in 2010. Cara Tabachnick, CBS News, 31 Jan. 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

Dictionary Entries Near valedictorian

Cite this Entry

“Valedictorian.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/valedictorian. Accessed 21 Feb. 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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