homage
homage Lexical Profile
homage Game Scores & Validity
• noun
Special honor, reverence, or respect shown publicly toward a person, institution, or achievement.
"Musicians from around the world gathered at the concert hall to pay homage to the legendary composer."
An artistic work or creative element that intentionally imitates or alludes to an earlier artist or work as a gesture of admiration.
"The director's latest thriller is a stylish homage to classic film noir of the 1940s."
In feudal law, the formal public acknowledgment of allegiance by which a vassal declared himself the man of his lord in exchange for a fief and protection.
"During the medieval ceremony, the newly appointed baron knelt to swear homage and fealty to the king."
Word Nuance & Usage
In general usage, 'homage' is pronounced with the stress on the first syllable, but when referring specifically to an artistic or literary tribute, it is often pronounced in the French manner with the stress on the second syllable and a silent 'h'.
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the 13th century from Old French 'hommage', from Medieval Latin 'hominaticum' (service of a vassal), derived from Latin 'homo' (man).