honorary
UK: ˈɒnərəri | US: ˈɑːnəreri
adj. conferred as an honor, without the usual requirements or obligations
adj. holding a title or position as a mark of honor, without performing its usual duties
The word "honorary" derives from the Latin honorarius, meaning "done as an honor." The root honor (from Latin honos/honor) signifies esteem or respect, while the suffix -ary (from Latin -arius) forms adjectives indicating "related to" or "pertaining to." Over time, "honorary" evolved in English to describe titles, degrees, or positions granted as a mark of distinction, often without functional responsibilities. The morphemes retain their original spelling, preserving the word's logical construction.
She received an honorary doctorate for her contributions to science.
The mayor appointed him as an honorary member of the city council.
The university awarded honorary degrees to three celebrated authors.
He serves as the honorary chairman but rarely attends meetings.
The organization named her an honorary ambassador for her advocacy work.