honoree

the word 'honoree' is a modern english formation that follows a classic pattern for denoting a recipient. its first element, 'honor', descends directly from latin 'honor', which conveyed notions of esteem, dignity, and public office. the second element, the suffix '-ee', entered english via the anglo-french legal suffix '-é', itself derived from the latin past participle ending '-atus', used to indicate a person who is the object or beneficiary of an action. thus, the literal construction "one who is honored" logically and transparently yields the contemporary meaning of a person receiving an award or recognition.

Structure: honor + ee honor (from latin 'honor, honos', meaning esteem, dignity, public office); ee (from anglo-french suffix '-é', a recipient suffix, from latin '-atus' past participle ending).