honorary

American  

[on-uh-rer-ee] / ˈɒn əˌrɛr i /

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.

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honorary British  

/ 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

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Other Word Forms

• honorarily adverb

Etymology

Origin of honorary

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

Related Words

• titular