valediction

noun

val·​e·​dic·​tion ˌva-lə-ˈdik-shən How to pronounce valediction (audio)
1
: an act of bidding farewell
2
: valedictory sense 1

Examples of valediction in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Are teams going to make the same mistake twice with Cole Hutson? 'Rafa, Rafa, Rafa': Encouragement and valediction at Nadal's last match in Madrid Which Jets UDFAs have best shot to make the team? — New York Times, 1 May 2024 This record and tour are by no means a last valediction to her music career. — August Brown, Los Angeles Times, 30 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from New Latin valedictiōn-, valedictiō, from Latin valedic-, alternate stem of vale dīcere, valedīcere "to say goodbye," (from vale, interjection, "goodbye, farewell," reduced form of valē, imperative of valēre "to have strength, be well" + dīcere "to speak, say") + -tiōn-, -tiō, noun suffix of action — more at wield, diction

First Known Use

1613, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of valediction was in 1613

Rhymes for valediction

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Cite this Entry

“Valediction.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/valediction. Accessed 22 Mar. 2025.

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