Accolade
mediumPositive toneAK-uh-layd
noun
Definition
An award or privilege granted as a special honor; high praise
Memory hook
ACCOLADE: picture a gold medal placed around your neck (collum = neck) — the ultimate award.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The scientist received numerous accolades for her groundbreaking research.”
“Winning the prestigious award was the highest accolade of his career.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The scientist received numerous ______ for her groundbreaking research.”
Show answer
accolades
Categories
GRE Tip
Accolade is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "honor" or "tribute" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "censure".
Related GRE Words
panegyric
A public speech or writing in praise of someone or something
eulogy
A speech praising someone who has died
acclaim
Enthusiastic public praise or approval
encomium
A speech or piece of writing that praises someone or something highly
plaudits
Praise; enthusiastic approval
approbation
official or warm approval and praise
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