commendation

American  

[kom-uhn-dey-shuhn] / ˌkɒm ənˈdeɪ ʃən /

noun

1. the act of commending; recommendation; praise.

   commendation for a job well done.

   Synonyms:

   applause, approbation, approval

   Antonyms:

   condemnation

2. something that commends, as a formal recommendation or an official citation or award.

   a commendation for bravery.

   Synonyms:

   laudation, panegyric, encomium, eulogy

   Antonyms:

   condemnation

3. Feudal Law. the placing of oneself or one's land under the protection of a lord so as to become his vassal.

4. Archaic. commendations, a complimentary greeting or message.

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commendation British  

/ ˌkɒmɛnˈdeɪʃən /

noun

1. the act or an instance of commending; praise

2. an award

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Other Word Forms

• self-commendation noun
• subcommendation noun
• supercommendation noun

Etymology

Origin of commendation

1175–1225; Middle English commendacioun (< Anglo-French ) < Latin commendātiōn- (stem of commendātiō ) a commending to God. See commend, -ation

Example Sentences

The Visalia Unified School District’s public board meeting in March was a festive and upbeat affair with a performance by a student chamber music group and a commendation for a high school cheer squad.

From Los Angeles Times

The jurists are hardly due a commendation, since their previous ruling on the question was reversed 9-0 by the Supreme Court this summer.

From The Wall Street Journal

The sycophants bestowed with medals and presidential commendations.

From Los Angeles Times

She said Mr Berrill, who has received two police commendations, was in the group for about two-and-a-half months and had sent 90 messages out of thousands.

From BBC

Inside, the walls were filled with commendations and newspaper clippings celebrating Ramos’ good works.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• encouragement