Honorary
ˈɒnərəri
Definitions
2 meaningsConferred as an honor; not involving the usual duties, responsibilities, or payment.
ˈɒnərəri
Given as an honor, often without the usual responsibilities or requirements.
The university granted her an honorary degree in recognition of her achievements.
💡 Simply: Imagine getting a special award or title, like being called 'Captain' of your game club. You might not have to do all the work of a captain, but you get the cool title as a reward for being awesome. That's what 'honorary' means: a title or role given as a special treat!
👶 For kids: It means something is given to you as a special prize, but you don't have to do all the work that usually comes with it.
More Examples
He serves as an honorary consul for his country in the foreign nation.
She was named an honorary chairperson of the event.
How It's Used
"He received an honorary doctorate from the university."
"She was made an honorary member of the club."
Describing a position given as a mark of respect.
ˈɒnərəri
Used to describe a position that is held as a matter of prestige.
He was awarded an honorary title for his decades of service to the charity.
💡 Simply: Think of it as a super cool title or role given to someone because they are so admired and respected. It’s not a real job with a paycheck; it's like being 'honorary king' of the playground just for being a great friend and awesome player.
👶 For kids: It's a fancy title you get because you are super special.
More Examples
She was appointed to an honorary committee to advise on the matter.
The mayor made her an honorary ambassador to promote tourism.
How It's Used
"He was given an honorary position in the society."
From Latin *honorarius* ('relating to honor'), derived from *honos* ('honor'). The word evolved to describe roles and titles conferred as a mark of respect, often without the usual duties or pay.
The term 'honorary' has long been used to denote roles and titles that carry respect rather than specific responsibilities. Historically, it was frequently applied to religious figures, scholars, and individuals of high social standing.
Memory tip
Think of an 'honor' that's given freely, without the typical obligations.
Practice
Word Origin
Root: honorarius