ho·no·ris cau·sa \(h)äˌnōrə̇ˈskau̇sə, (h)əˌn-, (h)ōˌn-, (h)ȯˌn-, -nȯr-, -kau̇(ˌ)sä, -kau̇(ˌ)zä sometimes -kȯzə\adverb (or adjective) Etymology: Latin : as a token of respect or honor; especially: in recognition of distinctions or accomplishments not achieved in course < degrees conferred honoris causa > < the degree of doctor of laws honoris causa >