English Reference
noun · adjective · verb

honey

n. · adj. · v.
US /ˈhəni/ UK /hˈʌni/ hon·ey UK spelling honeying, honeys

  1. 01 A1 Beginner

    n.a sweet, thick, gold-coloured liquid that bees make from flowers.

    n.a sweet, viscous fluid produced by bees from the nectar of flowers. Uncountable in its general sense.

    Simple

    I like to put a spoonful of honey in my tea when I have a cold.

    In context

    The local market sells various types of organic honey, each with a distinct flavour profile depending on the flowers the bees visited.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.a warm, golden-yellow colour.

    n.a spectrum of pale yellow to brownish-yellow colour resembling the appearance of bee honey.

    Simple

    The wood of the old desk had turned a beautiful shade of honey over the years.

    In context

    The interior designer recommended a honey palette for the living room to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced SlangInformal

    n.a slang word for an attractive person.

    n.a slang term for an attractive person, typically a woman. Often perceived as dated or objectifying.

    Simple

    He thought she was a real honey and asked for her number.

    In context

    The lyrics of the 1950s pop song frequently used the word honey to refer to the singer's love interest.

  4. 04 B2 Upper Intermediate

    adj.having the colour or sweet taste of honey.

    adj.resembling honey in colour, consistency, or sweetness.

    Simple

    The sunlight gave the fields a honey glow in the late afternoon.

    In context

    The wine was noted for its honey notes and smooth finish, making it an excellent dessert pairing.

  5. 05 C2 Proficiency Literary

    v.to add honey to something or to make something sound nicer.

    v.to sweeten with honey or to make something more agreeable through pleasant words.

    Simple

    She tried to honey her request with a bright smile.

    In context

    The diplomat attempted to honey his criticism with praise for the nation's recent cultural achievements.

    sweetensugarcoat
This entry
Level A1 · Beginner
Frequency Common
Updated