honour
UK[ˈɒnə(r)]US[ˈɑːnər]
n
great respect and admiration for someone.
n
the quality of knowing and doing what is morally right.
n
something that makes you feel very proud.
v
to show great respect for someone or something, especially in public.
v
to do what you have agreed or promised to do.
Etymology
the word 'honour' entered english in the 12th century via the anglo-norman 'honour' and old french 'onor', which itself descended from the latin noun 'honor' (also spelled 'honōs'). the latin term originally denoted a concept of esteem, dignity, and public office, rooted in the verb 'honāre', meaning 'to honour'. this latin root is thought to be of uncertain, possibly etruscan, origin, though it became a central term in roman civic and moral life. the spelling with 'h' was restored in english from latin in the 16th century, distinguishing it from the french-derived 'onor' or 'onour', and the word evolved to encompass the abstract qualities of integrity, respect, and moral excellence that define its modern meanings.
Analysis
the word 'honour' is a simplex form. it is a loanword from anglo-norman and old french, ultimately derived from the latin 'honor, honōs', meaning 'esteem, dignity, office, reputation'. its functional role is as a complete lexical unit.
Examples
it was a great honour to be invited to speak at the ceremony.
he is a man of principle and honour.
the country honoured its war heroes with a national monument.