accolade

 
Pronunciation: /ˈakəleɪd, ˌakəˈleɪd/

noun

  • 1an award or privilege granted as a special honour or as an acknowledgement of merit: the hotel has won numerous accolades
  • an expression of praise or admiration: poignant accolades and urgent testimonials of thanks
  • 2a touch on a person’s shoulders with a sword at the bestowing of a knighthood.

Origin:

early 17th century: from French, from Provençal acolada, literally 'embrace around the neck (when bestowing knighthood)', from Latin ad- 'at, to' + collum 'neck'