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honorable

adj. · n.
US //ˈɑnɝəbəɫ// UK //ˈɒnəɹəbəl// hon·or·able
  1. 1 having integrity (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate American English

    honest and fair; having high moral standards that make people respect you.

    possessing or characterized by high moral standards and integrity. Often used to describe conduct that adheres to a strict ethical code.

    Example

    The judge was known for being an honorable man who always followed the law.

    Example

    Choosing to admit his mistake was the only honorable course of action, even though it meant he would lose the contract.
    Pitfall
    He is an honourable man.
    He is an honorable man.

    In American English, the word is spelled 'honorable'. The spelling 'honourable' is used in British English.

  2. 2 worthy of respect (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate American English

    deserving respect or praise because of good qualities or achievements.

    worthy of being honored or respected; respectable in character or standing.

    Example

    Teaching is an honorable profession that helps the whole community.

    Example

    After decades of service, he retired with an honorable record that served as an inspiration to the younger officers.
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  1. 3 formal title (adj.)
    C1 Advanced American English Formal Law

    a title used before the names of certain government officials, like judges or mayors.

    an honorific title used for high-ranking officials, including judges, members of Congress, and mayors. Usually capitalized when used as a title.

    Example

    The letter was addressed to the Honorable Sarah Jenkins.

    Example

    The Honorable Justice Miller presided over the hearing, ensuring that all procedural requirements were strictly met.

    Usage

    In written addresses, it is typically abbreviated as 'Hon.' followed by the full name.

  2. 4 a titled person (n.)
    C2 Proficiency American English Formal Politics

    a person who has the official title of 'Honorable'.

    a person, typically a politician or judge, who is entitled to the honorific 'Honorable'.

    Example

    Several honorables from the state senate attended the opening ceremony.

    Example

    The gathering of honorables at the summit highlighted the diplomatic importance of the new trade agreement.
Origin

From Middle English honourable, from Old French honorable, honurable, from Latin honōrābilis, from honōrō (“I honour”); cognate with Italian onorabile, Spanish honorable. By surface analysis, honor + -able. In this sense, largely displaced Old English ārfæst.

Word family
Idioms1 entry

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