honorable mention

noun

1. a citation conferred on a contestant, exhibit, etc., having exceptional merit though not winning a top honor or prize.

Word History and Origins

Origin of honorable mention¹

First recorded in 1865–70

Example Sentences

After transferring to Oklahoma, he posted his best college season as a sophomore, making 47 tackles and forcing three fumbles to become an honorable mention All-Big 12 Conference selection.

From Los Angeles Times

Also, some honorable mentions worth checking out include the Arizona Cardinals, Atlanta Falcons, Tennessee Titans and Cincinnati Bengals.

From Los Angeles Times

Last season: After transferring from Houston, Caldwell emerged as a full-time starter for Oregon, where he had a career-high 29 tackles and earned All-Big Ten honorable mention as the team’s run-stuffing nose tackle.

From Los Angeles Times

Here are 10 prolific pens that deserved an honorable mention.

From Los Angeles Times

Bilodeau was an honorable mention in voting by media who cover the conference.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• kudos