Honor Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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honor

[หˆษ’nษ™r ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

award

High respect; great esteem.

Synonyms

acclaim, admiration, esteem, respect.

Examples of usage

  • She is held in high honor by her colleagues.
  • We pay honor to those who have served our country.
  • The medal is a symbol of honor and bravery.
Context #2 | Verb

tribute

Regard with great respect.

Synonyms

adore, celebrate, praise, respect.

Examples of usage

  • We honor the memory of those who have passed away.
  • He was honored for his contributions to the community.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, honor is central to social interaction, influencing traditions and family values.
  • The concept of honor is crucial in martial traditions, often associated with bravery and reputation.
  • Certain cultures have honor codes that may lead to serious consequences if they are violated.

Literature

  • William Shakespeare often explored themes of honor, particularly in plays like 'Henry V', where it drives characters' actions.
  • Honor is a recurring theme in many classic novels, showcasing charactersโ€™ struggles to maintain or regain their integrity.
  • The concept often appears in poetry, inspiring works about personal virtue and moral dilemmas.

Psychology

  • Research suggests that a personโ€™s sense of honor can greatly affect their mental health and interpersonal relationships.
  • Feelings of honor can boost self-esteem and motivate individuals to act in line with their values.
  • The desire for honor can lead to prosocial behaviors or, in contrast, to retaliatory actions when dishonored.

Modern Usage

  • In todayโ€™s society, honor may be linked to professions (e.g., military honors) and ceremonies, reflecting respect and achievement.
  • Social media has created new avenues for promoting and validating acts of honor and integrity.
  • In debates around ethics, the concept of honor is often invoked to assess moral conduct in various situations.

Origin of 'honor'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'honor', which means respect and esteem.
  • In Old French, 'honour' added a layer of nobility, showing how it was tied to social status.
  • The term has been used since at least the 13th century in English, reflecting deep cultural values.

The word 'honor' originated from the Old French 'honor' and the Latin 'honor', meaning esteem or respect. It has been used in the English language since the 13th century. In various cultures and societies, honor has been a significant concept, representing dignity, integrity, and moral excellence.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,438, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.