Awarded Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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awarded

[əˈwɔːdɪd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

achievement

Given or presented an award to (someone) in recognition of an achievement.

Synonyms

commended, honored, recognized.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
awarded

Use when someone receives a formal prize, grant, or honor, often in a competitive setting or based on merit.

  • She was awarded a scholarship for her academic excellence
  • The team was awarded a trophy for winning the championship
honored

Use when someone is shown deep respect or given a special distinction, usually because of their achievements, character, or contributions.

  • He was honored at the banquet for his lifetime of community service
  • The retiring professor was honored for her dedication to education
recognized

Use when someone's accomplishments or efforts are acknowledged publicly, often implying that some formal acknowledgment is being made.

  • She was recognized for her hard work and dedication at the annual company meeting
  • The scientist was recognized with an award for her breakthrough research
commended

Use when someone is praised formally, usually for a specific achievement or action, often by someone in authority.

  • The firefighter was commended for his bravery during the rescue operation
  • She was commended for her outstanding contribution to the project

Examples of usage

  • He was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1957.
  • She was awarded a scholarship for her academic excellence.
  • The team was awarded first place in the competition.
Context #2 | Adjective

honor

Regarded or given as a result of a decision.

Synonyms

bestowed, given, granted.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
awarded

Used when someone receives an official prize or recognition, especially in formal settings like competitions, academic achievements, or honors.

  • She was awarded the Nobel Prize for her contributions to science
  • The student was awarded a scholarship for his excellent grades
granted

Often implies official permission, rights, or acknowledgment, particularly in formal, legal, or administrative contexts.

  • He was granted a visa to visit the country
  • The court granted her request for custody of her children
given

A general term used in everyday situations for presenting or handing over something to someone.

  • She was given a book as a birthday present
  • He has given his friend some advice
bestowed

Typically involves giving an honor, title, or gift in a somewhat formal or ceremonial manner, often implying the giver holds a position of authority.

  • The king bestowed knighthood upon the brave soldier
  • The university bestowed an honorary degree on the renowned author

Examples of usage

  • The title of 'Most Valuable Player' is awarded to the best player in the league.
  • The certificate was awarded to those who completed the training program.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • Film and music awards, like the Oscars and Grammys, are highly celebrated events where talents are recognized with statues and trophies.
  • Sports awards, like the Heisman Trophy in American football, highlight outstanding players and elevate their status in their respective fields.
  • Nobel Prizes are among the highest honors, awarded annually for significant contributions in fields like physics, chemistry, and peace.

Education

  • Awarding scholarships can help students with financial needs to pursue higher education, showcasing merit and potential.
  • In schools, students can receive awards for good behavior, attendance, or academic excellence, motivating peers.
  • Competitions like spelling bees or science fairs often have awards, encouraging students to showcase their skills.

Psychology

  • Receiving an award can enhance self-esteem and motivation, reinforcing positive behaviors or achievements.
  • Recognition through awards can create a sense of belonging and community among peers, fostering social bonds.
  • Studies suggest that public recognition, such as being awarded in front of an audience, can significantly impact an individual's future performance.

History

  • Awards have been used throughout history as symbols of honor, such as medals awarded in military conflicts to recognize bravery.
  • The first recorded awards date back to ancient civilizations, where leaders would reward their best soldiers.
  • The practice of awarding distinguished service continued into the modern era, evolving into formal awards and ceremonies we see today.

Origin of 'awarded'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'awarded' comes from the Old English 'afweardan', meaning 'to give or assign'.
  • In Middle English, it evolved to 'awarden', pointing to the act of giving as a formal process.
  • English borrowed the term from the French 'à warder', which implies the act of rescue or protection before its current meanings.

The word 'awarded' originated from the Middle English word 'awarden', which in turn came from Old Northern French 'a-warder', meaning 'to look at, consider'. The sense of giving a prize or honor as a result of a decision dates back to the mid-16th century. Over time, 'awarded' has become commonly used in various fields to acknowledge achievements and recognize excellence.


See also: award, awardees, awarding, awards.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,985, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.