The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

4.8

✔ Add 3,700 must-know words to your vocabulary.
✔ All-in-one: dictionary, thesaurus, & workbook.

✔ 632 pages, 147 lessons, 428 practical activities.

✔ Suitable for students & professionals of all ages.

Buy on Amazon

Amazon Best Seller:

#1 Spelling & Vocabulary.

#1 Education TOEFL & TOEIC.

#1 Slang & Idiom Reference Books.

Transform Your Vocabulary!

valedictory

adjective

/ˌvalɪˈdɪkt(ə)ri/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of valedictory

Serving as a farewell, departure, or parting speech, often delivered on a significant occasion, such as a graduation ceremony.
"They performed a valedictory concert for the mayor's official retirement."

Detailed meaning of valedictory

When something is characterized as valedictory, it implies a sense of closure and a formal acknowledgment of the end of a particular phase or period. In educational contexts, a valedictory address is typically given by a student with the highest academic achievements, bidding farewell to their classmates and expressing gratitude and well-wishes for the future. In broader contexts, a valedictory message or event can mark any significant farewell or parting, where individuals express their sentiments, appreciation, and hopes for the future as they bid adieu to a particular chapter in their lives. "Valedictory" underscores the idea of a formal and often poignant farewell that carries a sense of significance and finality.

Example sentences containing valedictory

1. His valedictory speech was packed with amusing anecdotes and just a hint of sadness.
2. Her valedictory speech summarised a lifetime of teaching and signalled the end of a glorious career.
3. She gave a valedictory nod and forced a smile as tears of emotion streamed down her face.
4. She gave a valedictory wave that disguised the pain and regret she felt from leaving her friends.
5. Staff gathered to hear the boss' valedictory address upon his retirement.
6. Loyal fans gathered for a valedictory concert in the intimate setting of a local park.

History and etymology of valedictory

The adjective 'valedictory' is rooted in the Latin word 'valedicere,' which is a combination of 'vale' (farewell) and 'dicere' (to say or speak). This term emerged during ancient Roman times and was used to bid a formal farewell or express good wishes upon departing. Over the centuries, 'valedictory' evolved into its current usage, specifically referring to a farewell address or speech given on important occasions, such as graduation ceremonies, where individuals bid farewell to their academic or professional pursuits and the people they have met along the way. These valedictory speeches serve as a poignant way to mark the end of one chapter and the beginning of another.

Quiz: Find the meaning of the adjective valedictory:

answer1

answer2

answer3

answer4

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

Further usage examples of valedictory

1. She gave the valedictory speech at her high school graduation.
2. He was chosen as the valedictorian of his class due to his outstanding academic achievements.
3. The valedictory speech at the awards ceremony was full of words of gratitude and encouragement.
4. She gave a heartfelt valedictory speech at her farewell party.
5. His valedictory address at the conference was a poignant and inspiring tribute to his colleagues.
6. The valedictory speech at the retirement party was a fitting tribute to the retiree's many years of service.
7. She wrote a valedictory letter to her classmates, thanking them for their friendship and support.
8. His valedictory speech at the university graduation was a poignant and inspiring message to his fellow graduates.
9. She gave a moving valedictory speech at her farewell concert, thanking her fans and supporters.
10. The valedictory address at the company's annual meeting was a tribute to the company's many accomplishments.
11. She wrote a valedictory message on her social media account, thanking her followers and announcing her departure.
12. His valedictory speech at the club's annual meeting was a tribute to the club's many achievements and a farewell to its members.
13. Her valedictory address moved the entire graduation audience.
14. The valedictory speech marked the end of their high school journey.
15. The valedictory remarks inspired hope for the future.
16. The valedictory ceremony celebrated their academic achievements.
17. His valedictory words resonated with everyone in attendance.
18. The valedictory dinner honored their years of hard work.
19. The valedictory speaker thanked teachers and classmates.
20. The valedictory tribute brought tears to many eyes.
21. The valedictory party was a joyful farewell to friends.
22. The valedictory address left a lasting impression on all.
23. Her valedictory message encouraged graduates to dream big.
24. The valedictory event marked a new beginning for the graduates.