awards; awarded; awarding
1
: to give (a reward or prize) to someone or something
The judges will award a prize to the best speaker.
The winner was awarded a gold medal.
A prize will be awarded to the student who sells the most tickets.
2
: to officially decide that someone should get (something)
The jury awarded damages to the defendant.
The company is awarding the contract to the lowest bidder.
He was awarded a patent for his invention.
plural awards
: something (such as a prize) that is given to someone or something for being excellent or for doing something that is admired
Will the film win any awards at the festival?
She has won numerous awards for her books.
an awards ceremony [=a ceremony at which awards are given out]
an award-winning film/writer = an award-winner
Cite this Entry
“Award.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/award. Accessed 16 Jun. 2026.
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