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.
"honorary degree; honorary citizen"
"The university awarded her an honorary degree for her contributions to science."
"The old footballer received an honorary doctorate from the local college."
"They made him an honorary member of the club after many years of support."
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."
"The retired teacher became the honorary president of the village society."
"As an honorary consul, she helps visiting citizens without receiving a salary."
How to use honorary
Learner’s notesIn 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
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Word forms
- Plural
- honoraries
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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.
Antonyms
Related words
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.
