Honorables

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A term used to refer to individuals of high respect or integrity, especially in political or social contexts; a plural form signifying those regarded with admiration or esteemed positions; it can denote respectful recognition of persons in positions of authority or significance
2. This expression highlights individuals considered worthy of respect, particularly in governance or leadership roles; it implies a collective acknowledgement of character or accomplishments; it suggests a title or label given to those who exemplify commendable qualities
3. Used to describe a group characterized by their esteemed reputation or moral standing, often in legislative or formal settings; it expresses recognition of people whose actions or roles command respect; the term collectively signifies appreciative regard for distinguished figures

Etymology: "Honorables" is simply the plural of "honorable," so its history is the history of that adjective, which in its plural form has been turned into a noun for respected public figures. The adjective came into Middle English from Old French "honorable" or "honurable," and ultimately from the Latin "honōrābilis," meaning worthy of honour, built on "honōrō," to honour. In English, "honourable" largely displaced the Old English "ārfæst," which meant something like "honourable" or "pious," so the borrowed Latin-based term took over a role that native English had once filled. The plural noun is the more interesting turn. When the adjective is used as a noun, as in "the honorables," it usually refers to people who hold titles or office deserving of respect, and the plural carries that sense of a body of such people. The same pattern appears in "the right honourables" and similar forms in British and American public life.

Synonyms: gentlemen, dignitaries, officials, lords, gentlewomen

Antonyms: commoners, plebeians, common folk