Honour

Pronounced: ON-er

Meaning: Esteem, Respect

Gender: Girl
Origin: Latin
Language: English (British)

Classic Elegant Refined Virtue name Word name

What does Honour mean?

Honour is a virtue name that comes from the Latin root honor, meaning esteem or public respect. As a given name it evokes the idea of moral worth, dignity and social regard. If the precise sense is unfamiliar, think of it as a name that points to being respected for integrity and good character.

The tone of Honour is stately and refined without being stiff. It sits with classic names and also works in more modern combinations. Associations include decorum, trustworthiness and a quietly strong presence. Parents who like Grace or Faith will recognise the same virtues-led tradition in Honour.

❤️ Why Parents Choose This Name

It has a clear, positive meaning linked to integrity and respect.
It is recognisably British through its spelling and feels traditional without being dated.
It pairs well with both classic and modern middle names.
The name is distinctive yet easy to spell and pronounce in English-speaking countries.
It fits families who favour virtue names such as Grace, Hope or Faith.
It offers simple shortening options for informal use.

Historical Context

The word honour has deep roots in Latin as honor. As a personal name it follows the medieval and early modern pattern of adopting abstract virtues and qualities as given names. While virtue names are often associated with Puritan naming in the 17th century, Honour as a female given name also appears in later British usage, often with the traditional British spelling.

Over time, the name has remained relatively uncommon, which many parents find appealing. International and older forms include names such as Honora, Honorata and the French male form Honoré. In modern Britain Honour is used occasionally as a graceful, slightly formal choice that connects to a long linguistic history without feeling old-fashioned.