noun
meritorious deeds; distinguished services
Refers to outstanding achievements, especially in military or public service, worthy of recognition or decoration.
彼は戦場での勲功により勲章を授与された。
He was awarded a medal for his distinguished services on the battlefield.
勲功を立てた将校が表彰された。
The officer who performed meritorious deeds was commended.
Compound of 勲 (merit, distinguished service) and 功 (achievement, merit). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the combination has been used to denote outstanding service worthy of honor.