valedictorian

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "valedictorian" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to the student with the highest academic achievements in a graduating class, who often delivers a farewell speech at the graduation ceremony. Example: "As the valedictorian of my class, I was honored to give a speech at the graduation ceremony."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The recruit from Far Rockaway, New York, was the valedictorian of his high school, described as "only a child" by his parents.

The Guardian

A spartan high-school graduation party for the valedictorian Charlotte is but a prelude to the much raunchier parties yet to come.

The Economist

Duncan was raised in Bordentown, New Jersey, and attended Bordentown Military Institute, where he was valedictorian of his class in 1966.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He graduated as valedictorian from Morehouse College, a predominantly black school, with a Bachelor of Arts in economics in 1923 and from Rochester Theological Seminary (now Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School) with a Bachelor of Divinity in 1926.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Gates graduated as valedictorian of his high school class in 1968 and attended a local junior college before enrolling at Yale University, where he received a bachelor's degree in history in 1973.

Encyclopedia Britannica

She was valedictorian of her high-school class, and she later (1992) earned a bachelor's degree in psychology at Iowa State University, where she joined the university's Reserve Officers Training Corps ROTCTC) program.

Encyclopedia Britannica

At his racially segregated high school, he was class valedictorian and was one of only three graduates to go on to college, earning a B.S. in 1963 from Morehouse College, a historically black institution in Atlanta, Georgia.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He was valedictorian of his high-school class and received a scholarship to New York University.

Encyclopedia Britannica

At age 14 she began composing, and two years later she graduated as valedictorian from the Professional Performing Arts School in Manhattan.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Low was graduated as valedictorian of Columbia College in 1870, thereupon entering his father's prosperous importing business and becoming a leader in the tea and silk trades.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The valedictorian of her high-school class, Stewart received a scholarship to Maryville College of the Sacred Heart (now Maryville University of St . Louis but found the curriculum unrigorous and transferred after a year to Washington University, St . Louis where she paid for her tuition by working the night shift at a munitions factory.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about someone's academic achievements, using "valedictorian" adds a specific and recognizable mark of excellence. It indicates the student achieved the highest academic rank in their graduating class.

Common error

Avoid using "valedictorian" loosely to describe any high-achieving student. It specifically refers to the student with the highest rank in their graduating class, not just general academic success.

Linguistic Context

The word "valedictorian" functions primarily as a noun, identifying the student who achieves the highest academic standing in their graduating class. Ludwig's examples showcase its use in describing individuals' academic achievements and roles within educational institutions. Ludwig AI confirms that the usage is correct and clear.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

33%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

8%

Academia

7%

Reference

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "valedictorian" is a noun denoting the student with the highest academic rank in a graduating class. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is grammatically correct and commonly found in news, encyclopedias, and more formal contexts. It's important to use it accurately, referring specifically to the top-ranking student, and not to be confused with general academic achievement. Alternative phrases such as "top student" or "highest-ranking graduate" can be used depending on the specific nuance you aim to convey. Its usage suggests formality and recognition of outstanding academic performance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

top of the class

An idiomatic expression indicating the highest academic standing.

best student in class

A simpler, more direct way of expressing academic superiority.

top student

Focuses on academic performance without specifically mentioning graduation rank.

highest-ranking graduate

More formal and emphasizes the graduation aspect.

chief graduate

Highlights the prominent role during graduation.

honor graduate

Highlights graduating with honors, a broader category.

leading scholar

Focuses on scholarly achievements and intellectual prowess.

class leader

Emphasizes leadership qualities in addition to academic achievement.

academic champion

Highlights excelling academically.

most successful student

More general, considering various aspects of success, not just grades.

FAQs

What does it mean to be a valedictorian?

Being a "valedictorian" means you achieved the highest academic rank in your graduating class. This honor often includes delivering a farewell speech at the graduation ceremony.

What are some synonyms for "valedictorian"?

Alternatives include "top student", "highest-ranking graduate", or "best student in class", depending on the context.

How is "valedictorian" different from "salutatorian"?

The "valedictorian" is the student with the highest academic rank, while the salutatorian typically has the second-highest rank. The salutatorian often delivers the opening remarks at graduation.

Is being a "valedictorian" important for college admissions?

Being a "valedictorian" is a significant academic achievement that can enhance your college application, demonstrating dedication and exceptional performance in high school.