honorable
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /ˈɒnərəbəl/
US
- /ˈɑnərəbəl/
Description
- respectable
- worthy of esteem
- ethical
To be honorable means to have strong moral principles and to be known for honesty and fairness. Think of knights in shining armor—they were not just brave warriors, but people who followed a clear code of conduct.
You might describe a judge, soldier, or leader as honorable if they keep their values even when it is hard. You could also say someone had "honorable intentions," meaning they meant to do the right thing, even if things did not turn out well. The word is also common in formal settings, such as "honorable discharge" in the military. In general, it suggests a person, action, or purpose that deserves respect because it is guided by what is right.
The word "honorable" describes someone or something that deserves high respect, especially because of honesty, fairness, and strong moral principles. It is more than simply being good; it suggests a steady habit of doing what is right. Historical figures praised for their character are often described as honorable leaders.
The word is also used in formal and official ways. In some countries, it appears in titles such as "The Honorable" for judges, officials, or other people in public office. In the military, an "honorable discharge" means someone left service in good standing. In awards and competitions, an "honorable mention" means special praise for work that did not win a top prize but was still considered worthy of notice.
Beyond titles and official phrases, the everyday meaning is about character. An honorable action shows honesty, courage, or unselfishness. You might say someone acted "with honor" when they refused to betray their values under pressure. A person with an "honorable reputation" has earned trust and respect through consistent good conduct.
It is also worth noting that honorable does not simply mean lawful. A person can obey the rules without acting honorably. The word often suggests doing more than the minimum required, guided by a personal sense of right and wrong, even when no one is watching.
So, whether it describes a person's character, an action, a military record, or a formal title, "honorable" points to respect, dignity, and moral worth.
Examples
- 1
Personal character
Even his opponents described him as an honorable man.
- 2
Doing right
When no one was watching, she still did the honorable thing and told the truth.
- 3
Blame
There was nothing honorable about blaming your assistant for your own mistake.
Pattern
nothing honorable about + action
the action does not deserve respect
- 4
Awards
Our film did not win the festival, but it received an honorable mention.
Phrase
honorable mention
special praise without winning the main prize
- 5
Formal title
The Honorable Judge Alvarez will open the conference.
Usage
The Honorable
a formal title for some judges and public officials
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- honorableadjective