1
general::
In celebration of, as a mark of respect for, as in We are holding a banquet in honor of the president. [c. 1300]
American Heritage Idioms
2
general::
Phrase(s): in honor of someone or something
showing respect or admiration for someone or something. • Our club gave a party in honor of the club’s president. • I wrote a poem in honor of John and Mary’s marriage.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs