Definition

Noun: A salutatorian is the student who achieves the second-highest academic rank in their graduating class. Traditionally, this student may be given the honor of delivering the salutation or opening address at a graduation ceremony.

Usage

The term is used specifically in the context of academic institutions, primarily high schools, colleges, and universities in the United States and some other countries, to recognize the student with the second-highest grade point average (GPA) in a graduating class.

Examples

• The salutatorian gave a thoughtful speech about gratitude and looking to the future.
• She worked incredibly hard to finish as the salutatorian of her class.
• The principal announced the names of the valedictorian and the salutatorian.

Advanced Usage

• The role is often contrasted with the valedictorian, who is the top-ranked student.
• In some schools, the salutatorian's address is called the "salutatory" or "salutatory oration."

Variants and Related Words

• Salutatory (noun): The opening address or speech delivered by the salutatorian.
  • Her salutatory was both witty and inspiring.
• Valedictorian (noun): The student with the highest academic rank in a graduating class.

Synonyms

• Second-highest ranking graduate
• Class salutatorian

Notes

• The title is based on academic performance, typically calculated over all years of study within the institution.
• Not all schools follow this tradition; some may recognize multiple students with high honors without designating a single salutatorian.

Noun

1. a graduating student with the second highest academic rank; may deliver the opening address at graduation exercises