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adj Uncommon

honorary

AHN-uh-rehr-ee

Honorary (adj) means Given as a mark of respect, without the usual requirements or payment attached. Example: “The university awarded her an honorary degree for her contributions to science.”

adj
1
Given as a mark of respect, without the usual requirements or payment attached.
"The university awarded her an honorary degree for her contributions to science."
2
Holding a position or title unofficially, as a mark of respect rather than through normal appointment.
"He serves as honorary chairman of the charity board."

How to Use Honorary

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishDescribes a title, degree, or position given as a mark of respect rather than earned through the usual process.

Common pairings
honorary degree honorary member honorary title

Word Forms

honoraries plural, honoraries plural

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The university awarded her an _____ degree for her contributions to science.

Etymology

From honor + -ary, modeled on French honoraire, from Latin honorarius.

Origin: Latin

Rhymes for honorary

See all rhymes for honorary →

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “honorary” mean?

The word “honorary” means given as a mark of respect, without the usual requirements or payment attached. In plain terms, describes a title, degree, or position given as a mark of respect rather than earned through the usual process.

How do you pronounce “honorary”?

“Honorary” is pronounced AHN-uh-rehr-ee (/ˈɑn.əˌɹɛɹ.i/ in IPA).

How do you use “honorary” in a sentence?

Here is “honorary” used in a sentence: “The university awarded her an honorary degree for her contributions to science.”

What part of speech is “honorary”?

“Honorary” is an adjective.

Where does the word “honorary” come from?

The word “honorary” comes from Latin. From honor + -ary, modeled on French honoraire, from Latin honorarius.

Is “honorary” a common word?

“Honorary” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “honorary” have?

“Honorary” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: given as a mark of respect, without the usual requirements or payment attached.

What is an honorary member of an organization?

An honorary member holds their position unofficially, as a mark of respect, rather than through the normal appointment or election process used for other members. They are typically recognized for reputation or contribution rather than active duties.

Does an honorary title come with the same responsibilities as a regular one?

No, an honorary title is symbolic rather than functional, so it generally does not carry the day-to-day duties or authority of a normally appointed position. It exists mainly to confer respect and recognition.

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial