Table of Contents
The word for today is…
honorable (UK English honourable ) (adj) – 1. Deserving or winning honor and respect.
- Bringing distinction or recognition.
- Possessing and characterized by honor.
- Consistent with honor or good name.
- Distinguished; illustrious.
- Attended by marks of recognition and honor.
- Honorable Abbr. Hon.
a. Used as a title of respect for certain high government officials.
b. Used as a courtesy title for the children of barons and viscounts and the younger sons of earls.
c. Used in the House of Commons as a title of respect when speaking of another member.
Source : The Free Dictionary
Etymology : Mid-14th century (mid-13th century as a surname, Walter le Onorable, also known as Walter Honurable), “worthy of respect or reverence, respectable,” also “signifying or rendering distinction or respect; ensuring good repute or honor,” from Old French onorable, honorable “respectable, respectful, civil, courteous,” from Latin honorabilis “that procures honor, estimable, honorable,” from honorare “to honor,” from honor. Meaning “honest, sincere, in good faith” is from 1540s; sense of “acting justly” is from circa 1600.
"Now, George, you must divide the cake honorably with your brother Charlie."—George: "What is 'honorably,' mother?" "It means that you must give him the largest piece."—George: "Then, mother, I should rather Charlie would cut it." ["Smart Sayings of Bright Children," collected by Howard Paul, 1886]As an epithet before the name of a peer, Church or civil official, guild officer, etc., from circa1400. As a noun, “honorable person,” late 14c. Alternative adjective honorous (Old French honoros) seems not to have survived Middle English.
If you enjoyed this BFD word of the day please consider sharing it with your friends.
