What is a honor in golf?

Definition

The traditional golf etiquette privilege of playing first from the tee, typically earned by having the lowest score on the previous hole or being determined by lot on the first tee. Honor system promotes orderly play and recognizes good performance while maintaining pace and safety. Understanding honor protocols helps golfers follow proper etiquette and maintain course traditions. In casual play, honor may be modified for pace of play considerations, but the concept remains important for golf culture. Honor represents golf's tradition of rewarding good play and maintaining orderly competition.