Definition

1. Noun:
   • An opening or welcoming address, especially one delivered at commencement or graduation exercises: A "salutatory" is a formal speech that welcomes attendees and opens a ceremony, traditionally given by the student ranked second highest in the graduating class.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The valedictorian will speak after the salutatory.
  • Her salutatory at the graduation ceremony was both witty and inspiring.
  • The tradition includes both a salutatory and a valedictory address.

Advanced Usage

• "Salutatory oration": A more formal term for the salutatory speech.
  • He was honored to deliver the salutatory oration.

Variants and Related Words

• Salutatorian (n): The student, typically ranked second in the graduating class, who delivers the salutatory address.
  • She was named salutatorian for her academic achievements.

Synonyms

• Welcoming address
• Opening speech
• Introductory remarks

Notes on Different Meanings

• As a noun, "salutatory" refers specifically to the speech. It is rarely used in modern English outside of this formal academic context.
• The related adjective form ("salutatory" meaning "of or relating to a greeting") is now largely archaic and not commonly used. The noun form is the primary contemporary usage.

Noun

1. an opening or welcoming statement (especially one delivered at graduation exercises)