English Reference
verb · adjective

honored

v. · adj.
US /ˈɑnɝd/ UK /ˈɒnəd/ hon·ored UK spelling honoured

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate American English

    v.to show great respect for someone, often with a public award or ceremony.

    v.to confer high respect or recognition upon an individual or entity, often through a formal ceremony or award.

    Simple

    The city honored the brave firefighters with a special parade downtown.

    In context

    The university honored the retiring professor by establishing a scholarship in her name to recognize her decades of research.

    Usage

    This is a transitive verb that requires a direct object.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate American English

    v.to do what you promised or agreed to do.

    v.to fulfill an obligation, keep a promise, or accept a financial agreement as valid.

    Simple

    The company honored the original price even though the sale had ended.

    In context

    The bank refused to process the check because the account holder had not honored the terms of the agreement.

    Usage

    Commonly used with objects like 'agreement', 'contract', 'promise', or 'check'.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate American English

    adj.feeling very proud and happy because you have been given a special honor or chance.

    adj.experiencing a sense of pride or privilege resulting from being shown respect or given a unique opportunity.

    Simple

    I felt very honored to be invited to speak at the graduation ceremony.

    In context

    The young scientist felt deeply honored to collaborate with such a prestigious research team on the international project.

    insultedunappreciated

Brown said that’s why he wanted to make sure “the coach” is honoured at this game Wednesday.

Toronto Sun· 18 Aug 2026

He was supposed to be honored at the Silver Surfer Awards in November of that year.

Smithsonian Magazine· 12 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated