commendation

noun

com·​men·​da·​tion ˌkä-mən-ˈdā-shən How to pronounce commendation (audio)
-ˌmen-
1
a
: an act of commending
b
: something (such as a formal citation) that commends
2
archaic : compliment

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
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 See All Example Sentences for commendation

Word History

First Known Use

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of commendation was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Commendation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/commendation. Accessed 10 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

commendation

noun
com·​men·​da·​tion ˌkäm-ən-ˈdā-shən How to pronounce commendation (audio)
-ˌen-
1
: an act of commending
2
: something that commends
was awarded a commendation for bravery
commendatory
kə-ˈmen-də-ˌtōr-ē
-ˌtȯr-
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on commendation

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