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dignity

 - 3 dictionary results

dig⋅ni⋅ty

  [dig-ni-tee]
Use dignity in a Sentence
–noun, plural -ties.
1. bearing, conduct, or speech indicative of self-respect or appreciation of the formality or gravity of an occasion or situation.
2. nobility or elevation of character; worthiness: dignity of sentiments.
3. elevated rank, office, station, etc.
4. relative standing; rank.
5. a sign or token of respect: an impertinent question unworthy of the dignity of an answer.
6. Archaic.
a. person of high rank or title.
b. such persons collectively.
Origin:
1175–1225; ME dignite < AF, OF < L dignitās worthiness, equiv. to dign(us) worthy + -itās -ity
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2009.
Cite This Source Link To dignity
dig·ni·ty   (dĭg'nĭ-tē)   
n.   pl. dig·ni·ties

  1. The quality or state of being worthy of esteem or respect.

  2. Inherent nobility and worth: the dignity of honest labor.

    1. Poise and self-respect.

    2. Stateliness and formality in manner and appearance.

  4. The respect and honor associated with an important position.

  5. A high office or rank.

  6. dignities The ceremonial symbols and observances attached to high office.

  7. Archaic A dignitary.


[Middle English dignite, from Old French, from Latin dignitās, from dignus, worthy; see dek- in Indo-European roots.]
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
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Word Origin & History

dignity 
c.1225, from O.Fr. dignete, from L. dignitatem (nom. dignitas) "worthiness," from dignus "worth (n.), worthy, proper, fitting" from PIE *dek-no-, from base *dek- "to take, accept" (see decent). Dignitary is first recorded 1672.
Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2001 Douglas Harper
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