honorary

[on-uh-rer-ee]

adjective

1. given for honor only, without the usual requirements, duties, privileges, emoluments, etc..

   The university presented the new governor with an honorary degree.

2. holding a title or position conferred for honor only.

   an honorary president.

3. (of an obligation) depending on one's honor for fulfillment.

4. conferring or commemorating honor or distinction.

5. given, made, or serving as a token of honor.

   an honorary gift.

honorary

/ ˈɒnrərɪ, ˈɒnərərɪ /

adjective

1. 1. (esp of a position, title, etc) held or given only as an honour, without the normal privileges or duties

      an honorary degree

   2. (of a secretary, treasurer, etc) unpaid

2. having such a position or title

3. depending on honour rather than legal agreement

Other Word Forms

• honorarily adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of honorary¹

First recorded in 1605–15, honorary is from the Latin word honōrārius relating to honor. See honor, -ary

Example Sentences

Macau, which attracts almost 40 million visitors a year, offers an "unparalleled opportunity" to become a leading destination for medical tourism, said iRad's honorary chairman, Dennis Tam.

From BBC

It’s an especially difficult spot given Skipper’s ties to his longtime friend, who hired him before this season as a special assistant to the head coach and once called himself “an honorary Skipper.”

From Los Angeles Times

Redford served as the honorary chairman, supporting independent films that help drive the organization and the festival.

From Los Angeles Times

It was the only time Redford was ever nominated in the best actor category at the Oscars, although he would later win as a director - and received an honorary Oscar in 2002.

From BBC

A spokesman for the university - of which Mandelson was chancellor between 2016 and 2024 - said his honorary awards have been rescinded "following the revelations that have come to light in recent days".

From BBC

Related Words

• titular