honorific

views updated Jun 11 2018

hon·or·if·ic / ˌänəˈrifik/ • adj. given as a mark of respect: an honorific award for military valor. ∎  (of an office or position) given as a mark of respect, but having few or no duties. ∎  denoting a form of address showing high status, politeness, or respect: an honorific title for addressing women.• n. a title or word implying or expressing high status, politeness, or respect: he will be able to put the honorific after his name: licenciado, “college graduate.”DERIVATIVES: hon·or·if·i·cal·ly / ik(ə)lē/ adv.