honorable mention

noun

Synonyms of honorable mentionnext
: a distinction conferred (as in a contest or exhibition) on works or persons of exceptional merit but not deserving of top honors

Examples of honorable mention in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The other three words were honorable mentions. Josh Feldman, NBC news, 30 Dec. 2025 Carly had been awarded honorable mention in the spring American Protégé International Music Talent Competition and was invited to play in a recital program at Carnegie. Noah Lyons, San Diego Union-Tribune, 29 Dec. 2025 In 2024, Joseph was honorable mention All-Sun Belt after starting eight games and appearing in nine. Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 20 Dec. 2025 In the interest of spreading the wealth and honoring the spirit of 2025, my list comprises twenty-five films, plus a handful of honorable mentions. Justin Chang, New Yorker, 5 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for honorable mention

Word History

First Known Use

1797, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of honorable mention was in 1797

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Cite this Entry

“Honorable mention.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/honorable%20mention. Accessed 5 Jan. 2026.

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