Homage
/ˈɒmɪdʒ/
Definitions
A public expression of respect or honor, or something done to show respect or admiration.
/ˈɒmɪdʒ/
Public show of respect or honor
The statue was built as a homage to the city's founders.
💡 Simply: Homage is like giving a shout-out or a special tribute to someone or something you really admire. It's like saying, "Wow, you're awesome!" in a public way. Think of a song that's an homage to a favorite band. They're saying they really appreciate that band's music.
👶 For kids: Homage is when you show respect and love for someone or something special. It's like giving a big hug or a nice drawing to someone you care about.
More Examples
The film is a stylish homage to the classic noir movies.
The concert was a heartfelt homage to the late musician's legacy.
She felt it was important to pay homage to her ancestors.
How It's Used
"The museum paid homage to the artist with a retrospective exhibition."
"The novel is a homage to classic detective stories."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
pay homage
To show respect or admiration.
"The band decided to pay homage to their musical heroes by covering their songs at the concert."
From Old French *omage*, from *ome* ('man', 'vassal'), from Latin *homo* ('man'). The term originally referred to the feudal oath of loyalty sworn by a vassal to a lord. The meaning expanded to include respect or reverence expressed publicly.
The term 'homage' historically referred to the formal submission of a vassal to a lord in feudal times. It was the oath of allegiance, involving a symbolic gesture such as kneeling before the lord.
Memory tip
Think of 'home age'. People show respect to those in a position of power or authority that may also be older than them. Hence 'home age' means showing them respect.
Word Origin
"The word comes from 'ome' (man, vassal) and the Latin 'homo' (man), indicating a relationship of fealty and respect."