Word: Honour

Pronunciation

/ˈɒnər/ (British English)
/ˈɑːnər/ (American English)

Definitions

• Noun: (noun, often spelled “honor”) Respectability, high regard, or prestige gained by adhering to a code of moral values or through one’s achievements. It can also refer to a formal award given as a public acknowledgment of achievement. For example: “She was bestowed with numerous honours for her lifetime dedication to science.”
  • Example Sentence: “Winning the Nobel Prize was the highest honour of his career.”
• Verb: (verb, often spelled “honor”) To respect, show admiration for, or fulfill a commitment to someone or something. For instance, to attend to a promise, obey a code of conduct, or recognize someone’s achievements.
  • Example Sentence: “The team decided to honour their former coach by retiring his jersey number.”

Phrases

• “Honour among thieves”: The idea that even those who break the law often have a code of ethics they follow among themselves.
• “Do someone the honour”: Inviting or acknowledging someone in a way that shows respect or high regard.
• “In honour of”: Done to show respect or remember someone or something; a tribute.
• “Honour roll”: A list recognizing students or people who have achieved excellence.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “Maintaining one’s personal honour is crucial in many cultures.”
• Verb: “It is important to honour your commitments and promises.”

Synonyms

• Respect
• Esteem
• Glory
• Admiration
• Dignity
• Distinction
• Acclaim
• Recognition
• Fidelity (when used in the context of fulfilling commitments)
• Reverence (in some cases)
• Commendation (for the sense of giving an award)