kudo

noun

ku·​do ˈkü-(ˌ)dō 

ˈkyü-

plural kudos ˈkü-(ˌ)dōz 

ˈkyü-

1

: award, honor

a score of honorary degrees and … other kudos

—Time

2

: compliment, praise

rarely hear that kind of kudo to men anymore

—Ellen Goodman

Is kudo a word?: Usage Guide

Some commentators hold that since kudos is a singular word it cannot be used as a plural and that the word kudo is impossible. But kudo does exist; it is simply one of the most recent words created by back-formation from another word misunderstood as a plural. Kudos was introduced into English in the 19th century; it was used in contexts where a reader unfamiliar with Greek could not be sure whether it was singular or plural. By the 1920s it began to appear as a plural, and about 25 years later kudo began to appear. It may have begun as a misunderstanding, but then so did cherry and pea.

Synonyms

• award
• prize
• accolade

Examples of kudo in a Sentence

an honorary degree from her alma mater that is simply the latest kudo for an outstanding career in journalism

a kudo is in order for the way the young people acquitted themselves at their first formal dance

Recent Examples on the Web

There’s sufficient material here for a sentimental star vehicle, but Murphy generously shares the spotlight with a small but remarkable ensemble (kudos goes to casting director Robert Sterne for that). —Damon Wise, Deadline, 5 Sep. 2025

And kudos to Leeds goalkeeper Karl Darlow, above, for charitably helping them on their way. —Phil Hay, New York Times, 27 Aug. 2025

And by the way, kudos for your proper use of italics with Latinized names! —Paul Cappiello, The Courier-Journal, 23 Aug. 2025

Ice Spice received a ton of love in her comment section on Instagram, which included kudos from boyfriend Sauce Gardner, as well as Kali Uchis, Kehlani, Cash Cobain and Soulja Boy. —Michael Saponara, Billboard, 22 Aug. 2025

Word History

Etymology

back-formation from kudos (taken as a plural)

First Known Use

1822, in the meaning defined at sense 1