Word of the Day: Valentine

The word Valentine appears everywhere, from cards to social media, on February 14 every year. It also has links to modern romance and digital Galentine parties, but its past is based on sacrifice and an old Roman custom. In a world where digital connections often outpace real ones, going back to the meaning of Valentine can help you easily understand social cues and the vocabulary used on competitive exams. Let's look at what's in this word of the day for the season.

What is Valentine?

The word Valentine primarily refers to a person chosen as a sweetheart or a written greeting sent to express affection. According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, it is defined as a sweetheart chosen or complimented on Saint Valentine's Day.

Valentine - Origin and Etymology

The Latin name Valentinus, derived from valens, meaning "strong," "worthy," or "powerful," was the first step in Valentine's journey.

The name gained prominence through various early Christian saints named Valentine, most notably a priest who defied Emperor Claudius II by secretly marrying soldiers.

By the 14th century, Geoffrey Chaucer helped link the day to romantic love in his poem Parlement of Foules, suggesting that birds chose their mates on this day.

And, by the 15th century, the word evolved from a person's name into a common noun used to describe the object of one's affection.

Usage of Valentine in a Sentence

Here are some examples of valentine within a sentence for understanding its usage:  

1. She was delighted to find an anonymous valentine tucked into her textbook after the morning lecture.

2. In the 2026 digital landscape, many are opting for virtual reality experiences to celebrate with their long-distance valentine.

3. He spent weeks crafting a poetic valentine that captured the nuances of their decade-long friendship.

Valentine: Synonyms and Antonyms 

Did You Know?

The oldest known Valentine still in existence today is a poem written in 1415 by Charles, Duke of Orleans. He wrote it to his wife while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London following the Battle of Agincourt. He referred to her as his "very gentle Valentine," proving that even in the grimmest circumstances, the word has always been a vessel for hope and devotion.

More Words for the Day

Now that you've mastered the history of Valentine's Day, try using it in a sentence that goes beyond the greeting card. Whether for an exam or a toast, precision in language matters. See you tomorrow for another word!