honorably
/ˈɒnərəbli/
adverb
Origin
Latin
honorabilis — deserving of honor
Overview
Meaning Now
- In a manner that deserves honor or respect.
- In a manner consistent with ethical principles or integrity.
Language path
Latin → Old French → Middle English → English
Earliest form
honourably
Earliest period
14th century
Journey
The word stems from the Latin concept of 'honos', which represented not just public esteem but a sense of duty and moral rectitude that defined one's social standing in Roman society.
Evolution
- Latin
honorabilis
“honorable”
- Old French
honourable
“worthy of honor”
- Middle English
honourably
“in a noble manner”
Addition of the adverbial suffix -ly.
- Modern English
honorably
“in an honorable manner”
Standardized spelling in American English.
Connections
Word parts
honor
root
honor, esteem
-able
suffix
capable of being
-ly
suffix
in a manner of
Related across languages
French
honorablement
honorably
Spanish
honorablemente
honorably
Related words
Explore next
Related to honorably
External references use DefinedTerm semantics.