WordGarden.ioaward
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /əwˈɔːd/
US
- /əˈwɔrd/
Meanings
Noun
a prize, honor, or formal recognition given for achievement
a court or arbitration decision granting money or another remedy
Verb
to give someone a prize, honor, or formal recognition
to officially grant money, a contract, a degree, or a similar benefit
to grant or impose something by legal judgment
Beyond the definition
An award isn't just a shiny trophy; it's recognition for achievement! Think of the Oscars honoring great actors, or a school giving an award to a student with perfect attendance. But awards aren't always about being the best. Sometimes they're given as grants—money awarded to help someone pursue a project, like a research grant for a scientist studying climate change. You can award someone something (like a contract) or receive an award yourself. It's all about acknowledging effort and success, big or small.
The word "award" has several layers of meaning, but at its core, it signifies recognition for achievement, merit, or service. Most commonly, we think of awards as honors—tangible symbols like trophies, medals, or certificates given to acknowledge excellence in a particular field. The Nobel Prize, the Pulitzer Prize, and even "Employee of the Month" awards all fit this idea.
However, "award" also functions as a verb meaning to grant something officially, often after a decision or judgment. A judge might award damages to someone who has been wronged, or a company might award a contract to the lowest bidder. This usage emphasizes the formal act of bestowing something upon another.
Interestingly, "award" can also refer to money granted for a specific purpose—like a scholarship or research grant. These financial awards support people in pursuing education or projects that benefit society.
The context is key! Are you reading about the Academy Awards? Those are honors for film excellence. Is someone talking about being awarded custody of children? That's a legal decision. Or are they discussing an award to fund cancer research? That's financial support.
So, whether it's celebrating success, making official grants, or providing funding, "award" always points toward acknowledging value and bestowing something deserved—be it praise, recognition, or resources.
Examples
- 1
Film prize
She won an award for her short film.
- 2
School recognition
At the end of the year, the school gives an award for perfect attendance.
- 3
Entertainment awards
The show picked up three awards last night.
- Usagepick up an award
win an award; common informal phrase
- 4
Public ceremony
He was proud to receive the award in front of his family.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Recipient
The prize was awarded to a local charity.
- Patternbe awarded to + recipient
be officially given to that person or group
- 6
Scholarship
The committee awarded Maria a scholarship.
- Patternaward someone something
officially give them something
- 7
Court decision
The judge awarded her $5,000 in damages.
- 8
Contract
The city awarded the contract to a different company.
- Patternaward a contract to + company
officially choose that company for the work
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- win an award
- receive an award
- present an award
- award ceremony
Word family
- awarded
- awardee
Explore
- recognition
- selection committee
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- awardnounverb
Forms
- awardspluralnounverb
- awardedpast tenseverbnoun
- awarding-ing formverbnoun