commendation

noun

com·​men·​da·​tion ˌkä-mən-ˈdā-shən 

-ˌmen-

1

a

: an act of commending

b

: something (such as a formal citation) that commends

2

archaic : compliment

Synonyms

• award
• medal
• acknowledgement
• acknowledgment
• mention
• citation

Examples of commendation in a Sentence

Their hard work deserves commendation.

The President issued a commendation praising the volunteers for their exceptional work during the relief effort.

Recent Examples on the Web

In keeping with tradition, the Mass will include a homily and communion and end with a final commendation and farewell. —Lauren Kent, CNN Money, 26 Apr. 2025

Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Dean of the College of Cardinals, presided over the funeral liturgy and delivered the final commendation and valediction. —Nick Vivarelli, Variety, 26 Apr. 2025

At the 2025 Oscars, several Los Angeles firefighters took the stage to receive a commendation and a standing ovation from the audience. —Michael Nied, People.com, 22 Apr. 2025

The Foundation of Laguna Woods Village received a commendation by the Laguna Woods City Council on May 28 in recognition of its award as the 72nd Assembly District nonprofit of the year. —Anita Gosch, Oc Register, 15 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for commendation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

commendation

noun

com·​men·​da·​tion ˌkäm-ən-ˈdā-shən 

-ˌen-

1

: an act of commending

2

: something that commends

was awarded a commendation for bravery

commendatory

kə-ˈmen-də-ˌtōr-ē

-ˌtȯr-

adjective