Defining honor : a look at modern lexicographical works

This article outlines the origins of the word "honor" in Western Civilization, and the definitions given to it in the first modern lexicographical works. The study is limited to major European languages: English, French, German, and Italian. Polish tradition is also included because of the similar spelling, and similar meanings that can be found in given examples. The history of the term-andconcept "honor" reaches at least Ancient Roman tradition and lasts until contemporary times. The conclusion of this analysis is that the existence of the word "honor" in Western Civilization for over two thousand years reveals its cultureforming importance. It is not only because of the huge importance it was given by some of the most prominent Western thinkers. Another reason why the termand-concept of "honor" is important nowadays is its importance in understanding the phenomenon of modern terrorism