Definition

Noun: - The highest United States military decoration: The Medal of Honor is the most prestigious award presented to members of the U.S. armed forces. It is conferred by the President in the name of Congress to individuals who have distinguished themselves conspicuously by gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of their own lives above and beyond the call of duty during combat against an enemy of the United States.

Usage

The term "Medal of Honor" is a proper noun and is always capitalized. It refers specifically to this singular, highest-tier award. - It is awarded for extraordinary heroism. - The action must involve risk of life. - The act of heroism must be above and beyond the call of duty.

Examples

Advanced Usage

• "To be awarded the Medal of Honor": This is the standard phrase for receiving the decoration.
  • He was awarded the Medal of Honor for his valor during the battle.
• "Medal of Honor recipient": A standard term for a person who has been given the award.
  • The school was visited by a Medal of Honor recipient.

Variants and Related Words

• Congressional Medal of Honor: This is a common, informal name for the award, though its official title is simply "Medal of Honor."
• MOH: A standard initialism for the Medal of Honor.
• Medal of Honor citation: The official document describing the heroic act for which the medal was awarded.

Synonyms

• Highest military honor (descriptive synonym)
• Congressional Medal of Honor (colloquial variant)

Note: There are no direct, single-word synonyms for this unique, specific award.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• "Above and beyond the call of duty": This is the defining criterion for the Medal of Honor and is intrinsically linked to its meaning. It describes conduct far exceeding what is required or expected.
  • His actions that day were above and beyond the call of duty, worthy of the highest praise.

Noun

1. the highest U.S. military decoration awarded for bravery and valor in action `above and beyond the call of duty'