honor roll

American  

noun

1. a list of students who have earned grades above a specific average during a semester or school year.

2. a list of names, usually on a plaque in a public place, of local citizens who have served or died in the armed services.

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Etymology

Origin of honor roll

First recorded in 1905–10

Example Sentences

But in calling the honor roll, she misses Dartmouth College.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 21, 2026

Not long ago, I learned that my former student, now in high school, had made the honor roll.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 24, 2025

When one of the kids made honor roll, they’d celebrate at Dave & Buster’s.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 28, 2025

“The farm allows them to learn and become accomplished in a way that’s different. That’s good for your special education student and it’s good for your honor roll student.”

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 15, 2024

I stood twice for recognition—once, with the kids who were on the honor roll all three years, and second, because I played on the Sea Hawks’ tournament-winning basketball team.

From "Red Kayak" by Priscilla Cummings