honorable

[on-er-uh-buhl]

adjective

1. in accordance with or characterized by principles of honor; upright.

   They were all honorable men.

   Synonyms: just, noble, honest
   Antonyms: ignoble

2. of high rank, dignity, or distinction; noble, illustrious, or distinguished.

3. worthy of honor and high respect; estimable; creditable.

4. bringing honor or credit; consistent with honor.

5. (initial capital letter)

   1. (used as a title of respect for certain ranking government officials.)

   2. British.,  (used as a title of courtesy for children of peers ranking below a marquis.) Hon.

Other Word Forms

• honorableness noun
• honorably adverb
• quasi-honorable adjective
• quasi-honorably adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of honorable¹

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English hono(u)rable, from Anglo-French, from Latin honōrābilis; equivalent to honor + -able

Example Sentences

Where are the sensible, honorable folks who possess the smarts and the backbone to craft a fair deal?

Read more on Los Angeles Times

His honorable reputation preceded him, and his word was his bond— you could always trust what he said.

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While I disagree with him on many matters, I’ve always regarded him as principled and honorable, so his response to these events doesn’t surprise me.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Call me naive, but I still believe that keeping one’s word is always the honorable thing to do.

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Everyone, regardless of their background or status, was expected to work, and manual labor was honorable.

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Related Words

• conscientious 
• distinguished 
• ethical 
• honest 
• illustrious 
• law-abiding 
• noble 
• principled 
• reliable 
• respectable 
• righteous 
• sincere 
• straightforward 
• trustworthy 
• virtuous