noun

die Ehre, -n

honor

Das ist das gute Bild, das andere von einer Person haben, wenn sie ehrlich, fair und anständig ist.

Definition & meaning

Ehre refers to the reputation or high standing of a person or a group within a society, based on their moral behavior, achievements, or social status. It is the quality of being respected and admired by others.

There are two primary dimensions to the word:

Social Honor: The external respect or recognition granted by others (reputation). For example, "jemandem die Ehre erweisen" means to show someone respect.
Personal Honor: An internal sense of integrity, dignity, and self-respect. It refers to a person's adherence to their own moral principles.

The word is also frequently used to describe a privilege or a distinction, such as when an event or a task is considered a great honor for the person involved.

Grammar & Word origin

Die Ehre is a feminine noun. In the plural form, it becomes die Ehren, though the plural is primarily used in specific idioms and formal contexts, such as "zu Ehren von" (in honor of) or "in Ehren halten" (to hold in honor).

The word originates from the Old High German ēra, which meant "reverence," "dignity," or "glory." It is related to the concept of value and was historically linked to the legal and social standing of an individual in their community. It shares roots with the word ehrlich, which means honest.