The act of bidding farewell. (merriam webster)

Latin, "valedicere" to say goodbye

I recall reading that the romans might sign there letters, s.v.b.e.v., si vales, bene est; valeo. "If you are well, that is good; I am well."

In Brazil, they have "Vale Tudo" fights, mix-martial arts matches that are comparable to the UFC in the US, except with fewer rules.

Valere meant to be well or healthy
valetudinis good health

Anyway, I just found out my oldest daughter made valedictorian at her HS.