What does honourably mean?
Honourably is an adverb meaning in a way that deserves respect or approval. It describes conduct or performance that is admirable, reputable, and consistent with accepted moral or professional standards, often implying that the manner of doing something matters as much as its result. For example, a soldier may be honourably discharged, or a student may be honoured for an achievement achieved honourably. The word is more formal than words such as well or nicely and is especially associated with military service, public reputation, competition, and professional conduct. British English generally uses the spelling honourably, while US English commonly uses honorably. Although it conveys strong approval, honourably is more restrained and institutional than the more emphatic admirably or commendably.
adverbIn a way that deserves respect, approval, or honour; creditably or admirably.
- In a manner that is worthy of respect, approval, or honour.
"She completed the demanding course honourably and was rewarded with a distinction."
"The team was defeated but continued to compete honourably."
"He resigned honourably after the investigation found no evidence of misconduct."
To do something honourably is to act in a way that would make your personal standards—not just your results—worthy of respect.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does honourably come from?
Honourably derives from the adjective honourable, which in turn comes from honour, with the suffix -able and the adverbial ending -ly. Honour ultimately derives through Old French from Latin honor, a word associated with dignity, esteem, and respect. The related American spelling honor and its derivatives preserve the same Latin and French roots.
How honourably is actually used
In British English, the standard spelling is honourably; US English normally uses honorably. The word is formal and often describes conduct, service, performance, or an exit from an institution or military service.
Easily confused with honourably
Honourably is the usual British spelling, while honorably is the usual US spelling.