Definition

1. Noun:
   • A tangible symbol signifying approval or distinction: An "accolade" is a formal award, honor, or privilege granted as a public mark of recognition or esteem for merit.
   • An award for bravery: Specifically, it can denote an award, such as a military medal, given for courageous acts.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • Winning the Nobel Prize is considered the highest accolade in many scientific fields.
  • The soldier received a prestigious accolade for his valor in combat.
  • The film's director accepted the top accolade at the festival.

Advanced Usage

• "To receive/bestow an accolade": To be given or to give a formal honor.
  • The author was thrilled to receive such a prestigious literary accolade.
• "The ultimate/final accolade": Used to describe the highest possible honor in a particular context.
  • Being invited to speak at the conference was the ultimate accolade for the young researcher.

Variants and Related Words

• Accoladed (adj., rare): Having received accolades; honored.
  • The accoladed scientist gave a keynote address.
• Accolades (n., plural): The most common form, referring to multiple awards or praises.
  • The novel earned numerous critical accolades.

Synonyms

• Honor: A mark of respect or distinction.
• Award: A prize or other mark of recognition.
• Commendation: Formal or official praise.
• Laurels: Honors or recognition for achievement (often used in the plural, "to rest on one's laurels").

Related Phrases

• "A chorus of accolades": Widespread and enthusiastic praise from many sources.
  • The new policy was met with a chorus of accolades from industry leaders.

Idioms

• "To be showered with accolades": To receive a great many awards or much praise.
  • After her groundbreaking discovery, she was showered with accolades from around the world.

Noun

1. a tangible symbol signifying approval or distinction
   • an award for bravery