May we count your visit with Google Analytics? It uses cookies and sends visit data to Google. You can change this any time under Cookie choices. Privacy

 Browse the A to Z list

Valedictorian

n. capable, joyful formal

What it means

A graduating student honored for outstanding academic achievement.

Reach for it when identifying the graduating student formally chosen to deliver the farewell address

The valedictorian thanked every teacher who supported the class.

Words to choose between 5

By register, from playful at the top to literary at the bottom. Tap a word to see when it fits.
everyday
warm
professional
formal
  • Valedictorian (this word)
  • dux

  • everyday

    top graduate

    Fits when highest academic rank is the known distinction

    Careful A valedictorian may be chosen by broader criteria.

  • warm

    class leader

    Fits when peer leadership is the quality being praised

    Careful Leadership alone does not confer the title.

  • professional

    class speaker

    Fits when the ceremonial speaking role matters most

    Careful Class speaker says nothing about academic standing.

  • professional

    honor graduate

    Fits when strong academic achievement deserves recognition

    Careful Many honor graduates never deliver the address.

  • formal

    dux

    Fits when Scottish or Australian school terminology fits

    Careful Dux is unfamiliar in much of North America.

Opposites 3

  • underclassman
  • non-graduate
  • audience member

Common phrases 3

  • class valedictorian

    The class valedictorian thanked the custodians before discussing achievement.

  • chosen valedictorian

    As chosen valedictorian, Priya gathered memories from every study group.

  • valedictorian speech

    The valedictorian speech balanced celebration with gratitude.

Usage notes

Keep in mind

Selection rules vary among schools; some use academic rank and others choose speakers by audition or vote.

Definitions and examples are written for this site. How words are chosen Recording: Vealhurl, Southern England accent, from Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0 Updated