Honour
ˈɒnə(r)
Definitions
2 meaningsRecognition of worth or merit; high respect; a source of pride or distinction.
ˈɒnə(r)
High respect; admiration; recognition of achievement.
She received an honour for her contributions to science.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're a super athlete. When you win a big game, you feel a lot of pride and get a prize or award, right? That's like honour – it's a special way to show respect for something great.
👶 For kids: When someone does something super good, like helping others, we can give them an "honour"! It's like a special award for being awesome!
More Examples
It was a great honour to be invited to the ceremony.
The students showed honour to the flag and anthem.
How It's Used
"The Queen bestowed the honour upon the veteran."
"He received medals and recognition for his service and bravery to his country - military honours"
To show respect or high regard for; to fulfil (an agreement or obligation); to accept payment of (a cheque, etc.).
ˈɒnə(r)
To give high respect or regard to; to fulfill an obligation.
She honoured the memory of her grandfather by visiting his grave every week.
💡 Simply: Imagine you promised your friend to bring snacks. Honoring your promise means bringing the snacks. It’s about doing what you said you would, or showing that you think something is important.
👶 For kids: When you say you'll do something, and you do it, you are "honouring" your word! It's like keeping a promise or showing you care.
More Examples
The bank honoured the cheque.
We should honour the agreement that we all agreed to.
How It's Used
"We must honour the commitments we made."
"They honoured their parents by visiting them on the weekend."
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
on your honour
Used to emphasize that you are telling the truth or will keep a promise.
"I swear on my honour that I will never tell."
a matter of honour
A situation that demands ethical or honourable behaviour.
"Defending her family's reputation was a matter of honour for her."
From Old French *onour* and Latin *honor*, meaning 'esteem, reputation, dignity'. It evolved through various spellings and usages, reflecting societal values.
The word has been used extensively throughout history, particularly in literature and formal settings, denoting respect, integrity, and social standing.
Memory tip
Think of a Knight being given a medal, for displaying bravery - they are receiving Honour.