honor

(ŏnˈər)

1. High respect, as that shown for special merit; esteem: the honor shown to a Nobel laureate.
2. a. Good name; reputation.
   b. A source or cause of credit: was an honor to the profession.
3. a. Glory or recognition; distinction.
   b. A mark, token, or gesture of respect or distinction: the place of honor at the table.
   c. A military decoration.
   d. A title conferred for achievement.
4. High rank.
5. The dignity accorded to position: awed by the honor of his office.
6. Great privilege: I have the honor to present the governor.
7. Honor Used with His, Her, or Your as a title and form of address for certain officials, such as judges and mayors: Her Honor the Mayor.
8. a. Principled uprightness of character; personal integrity.
   b. A code of integrity, dignity, and pride, chiefly among men, that was maintained in some societies, as in feudal Europe, by force of arms.
   c. A woman's chastity or reputation for chastity.
9. honors Social courtesies offered to guests: did the honors at tea.
10. honors
    a. Special recognition for unusual academic achievement: graduated from college with honors.
    b. A program of advanced study for exceptional students: planned to take honors in history.
11. Sports The right of being first at the tee in golf.
12. Games
    a. Any of the four or five highest cards, especially the ace, king, queen, jack, and ten of the trump suit, in card games such as bridge or whist.
    b. The points allotted to these cards. Often used in the plural.

1. a. To hold in respect; esteem.
   b. To show respect for.
   c. To bow to (another dancer) in square dancing: Honor your partner.
2. To confer distinction on: He has honored us with his presence.
3. To accept or pay as valid: honor a check; a store that honors all credit cards.

Related Forms:

• honˈor·er noun