kudo

noun

ˈkü-(ˌ)dō How to pronounce kudo (audio)
Definition of kudonext
1
as in award
something given in recognition of achievement an honorary degree from her alma mater that is simply the latest kudo for an outstanding career in journalism

Synonyms & Similar Words

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2
as in compliment
an admiring personal remark a kudo is in order for the way the young people acquitted themselves at their first formal dance

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of kudo But kudos to Pablo Rodriguez, the AT&T tech and real-life human who showed up at my house to fix the problem. — Larry Magid, Mercury News, 3 Sep. 2026 So Zohran Mamdani deserves at least tentative kudos for taking it on so early in his administration and for offering a solution that, while resoundingly imperfect, at least seems grounded in the real world. — Justin Davidson, Curbed, 24 Aug. 2026 Alders who pushed last year for the full amount weren’t giving Johnson kudos. — The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 18 Aug. 2026 Outside of Ayo Edebiri and a couple of guest star nods, none of the main cast — including Jeremy Allen White — got kudos. — William Earl, Variety, 8 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for kudo
Recent Examples of Synonyms for kudo
  1. award
  2. compliment
  3. prize
  4. tribute
  5. accolade
  6. commendation
Noun
  • Films by women directors have historically won few opportunities at the awards, making the haul a landmark for feminist filmmaking in the country.
    — Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 12 Oct. 2026
  • Last season, in the Rams’ first four games, Stafford passed for eight touchdowns, with two interceptions, en route to a 3-1 start and what eventually became his run to a first MVP award.
    — Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 11 Oct. 2026
Definition of award
Noun
  • But despite Lloyd’s compliment, to say Evans had a great game would be an overstatement.
    — Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Observer, 6 Oct. 2026
  • So, alongside the compliments there’s an awful lot of real estate dedicated to his enemies, including his stepmother, Raine, whose many offenses included installing wall-to-wall carpeting in the family manse.
    — Ashley Baker, Air Mail, 3 Oct. 2026
Definition of compliment
Noun
  • That the accusation is being made against an African writer about a prize celebrating African writing is something others have noticed and called out.
    — James Folta, Literary Hub, 14 Oct. 2026
  • That jackpot wasn’t the Mega Millions top prize, which will be at $403 million for Friday’s drawing, or the Jackpot Triple Play, which will be at $500,000.
    — David J. Neal, Miami Herald, 14 Oct. 2026
Definition of prize
Noun
  • The most direct tribute to Tippett came in the battle against two giant droids guarding an overlord’s chamber.
    — Davide Abbatescianni, Variety, 16 Oct. 2026
  • The brand reinterpreted the Karakorum, Verone, Himalaya and Tibb jackets, paying tribute to its history, alpine culture and commitment to outfitting expeditions.
    — Luisa Zargani, Footwear News, 15 Oct. 2026
Definition of tribute
Noun
  • Although only founded in 2016, the RIBA International Prize is arguably the most prestigious accolade awarded to a single building.
    — Oscar Holland, CNN Money, 15 Oct. 2026
  • The Mexican pop icon will receive the accolade in recognition of an exceptional career spanning over three decades and his enduring influence on Latin music.
    — Sigal Ratner-Arias, Billboard, 13 Oct. 2026
Definition of accolade
Noun
  • Everyone applauded politely when Joontos collected its Bib Gourmand, and when Aseeb and Myazu received commendations.
    — Ruby Tandoh, New Yorker, 7 Sep. 2026
  • In appreciation of his efforts, he has been given a commendation from the Metropolitan Police and has received three Parliamentary awards.
    — Erin Clack, PEOPLE, 7 Sep. 2026
Definition of commendation

Browse Nearby Words

kraits
kudo
kudos
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Kudo.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/kudo. Accessed 18 Oct. 2026.

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