valedictory

American  

[val-i-dik-tuh-ree] / ˌvæl ɪˈdɪk tə ri /

adjective

1. bidding goodbye; saying farewell.

   a valedictory speech.

2. of or relating to an occasion of leave-taking.

   a valedictory ceremony.

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noun

plural

valedictories

1. an address or oration delivered at the commencement exercises of a college or school on behalf of the graduating class.

2. any farewell address or oration.

valedictory British  

/ -trɪ, ˌvælɪˈdɪktərɪ /

noun

1. a farewell address or speech

2. a farewell speech delivered at a graduation ceremony, usually by the most outstanding graduate

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Etymology

Origin of valedictory

1645–55; < Latin valedict ( us ) ( valediction ) + -ory ¹

Example Sentences

So as I emerge from the trenches, I have a few valedictory thoughts about how to make parenthood more appealing for my children and yours.

From Los Angeles Times

But as he noted ruefully in a valedictory speech last month, Americans may recognize the full benefits of those laws only once he’s out of office.

From Los Angeles Times

“My whole 2024 mantra has just been ‘Hold On,’ Tems said, referencing the hopeful, valedictory track on “Born in the Wild.”

From Los Angeles Times

But as her band revved up “Karma,” she offered one more valedictory thought, thanking her fans for “being a part of the most thrilling chapter of my entire life to date — my beloved Eras tour.”

From Los Angeles Times

Hunter Biden joined his family onstage this week in Chicago at the Democratic National Convention, where President Biden gave a valedictory address and the crowd roared, “Thank you, Joe.”

From Los Angeles Times