English Reference

Word

honors

Phoneticshon·ors, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈɑnɝz/

UK/ˈɒnəz/

UK spelling · honours

Definitions

01awards or respect

B2 · Upper Intermediate Plural noun

n. special awards or high praise given to someone for doing something great.

n. formal accolades, awards, or public expressions of high respect bestowed upon an individual for significant achievements.

“The retired general received full military honors during the ceremony.”

“The scientist was humbled to receive the highest honors the university could bestow, recognizing forty years of groundbreaking research in genetics.”

Antonyms

02advanced school classes

B2 · Upper Intermediate American English

adj. describes school classes that are more difficult or for students with high grades.

adj. denoting a course of study or a class designed for students who have shown exceptional academic ability.

“She is taking honors chemistry because she wants to be a doctor.”

“Enrolling in honors programs often requires a minimum grade point average and a formal recommendation from a previous instructor.”

Usage

Usually placed before the noun it describes.

Antonyms

03academic distinction

B2 · Upper Intermediate Plural noun British English

n. a high level of success in a university degree.

n. a distinction conferred on a university degree for high proficiency or a specific program of study beyond the pass level.

“He graduated with first-class honors in history last summer.”

“To graduate with honors, students must complete an original thesis and maintain a superior academic record throughout their four years of study.”

Real-World Examples

“He will be at the WellChild Awards in London towards the end of the month, continuing his support for the event which honours the bravery of seriously ill children.”
BBC News 24 Aug 2026
“With four goals in three games this season more honours, of a personal and team nature, are on the cards.”
The Guardian 31 Aug 2026

Idioms

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Frequent
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

QR code

englishreference.com/q/honors

English Reference