Honourable

Definition

Honourable is an adjective describing someone or something deserving of respect and esteem; it can also denote conformity to ethical principles. As a noun (title), it is used before the names of certain officials as a mark of respect.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun (formal title)

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA: /ˈɑːnərəbl/
• Respelling: ON-ər-ə-bəl

British English

• IPA: /ˈɒnərəbl/
• Respelling: ON-ə-rə-bəl

Etymology

Early 15th century: from Old French honorable or directly from Latin honorabilis “worthy of honour,” from honor “esteem, respect.”

Derivatives

• honourably (adverb)
• honour (verb/noun)
• honourary (adjective)

Synonyms

• respectable
• virtuous
• esteemed
• dignified
• upright

Antonyms

• dishonourable
• shameful
• contemptible
• ignoble

Usage

The adjective "honourable" is used in formal, moral, and social contexts to describe actions or persons deserving respect. For example, "It was an honourable decision to return the lost wallet," or "She led an honourable career in public service." As a noun (title), it appears before the names of judges, members of parliament, and other officials: "The Right Honourable Member for Winchester."

Related Terms

• Honour: High respect; esteem.
• Integrity: Adherence to moral and ethical principles.
• Dignity: Worthiness of respect or esteem.
• Esteem: Respect and admiration.
• Noble: Having outstanding qualities; dignified.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Deserving of respect or high regard – exhibiting integrity, fairness, and moral worth.
  • Example: "He made an honourable effort to settle the dispute amicably."
• Conforming to ethical or moral principles – characterized by honesty and fairness.
  • Example: "She gave an honourable account of her mistakes during the audit."

Noun (formal title)

• A title prefixed to the names of certain officials – used as a mark of respect for judges, members of parliament, and dignitaries.
  • Example: "The debate was chaired by The Honourable Justice Campbell."