valedictory

[ val-i-dik-tuh-ree ]

adjective

1. bidding goodbye; saying farewell:

   a valedictory speech.

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

   a valedictory ceremony.

noun

, plural val·e·dic·to·ries.

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

/ -trɪ; ˌvælɪˈdɪktərɪ /

noun

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of valedictory¹

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

Example Sentences

Speaking in her valedictory speech, Mrs May said being an MP "is the best job in the world" despite what she called "its frustrations".

From BBC

The move was unprecedented for a ceremony where students regularly make political and cultural statements through written message on their graduation caps and sashes, as well as through the traditional valedictory speech.

From Los Angeles Times

McConnell spoke from the Senate floor in somber, valedictory tones, but he left open the possibility that he might seek another term, declaring at one point: “I’m not going anywhere anytime soon.”

From Seattle Times

And indeed there was something of a valedictory air to Henley’s comments on Friday about having been on “a hell of a ride” over the last half-century.

From Los Angeles Times

McCarthy noted during his valedictory press conference that he got a text message from a former opponent of one of the eight Republicans who voted against him, Rep. Nancy Mace of South Carolina.

From Seattle Times