Spelling of Dignity: Dignity is spelled d-i-g-n-i-t-y.
Definition of Dignity: Dignity is the quality or state of being worthy, honored, or esteemed. It also means a high office, rank, or position. And finally, dignity refers to formal reserve or seriousness of manner, appearance, or language.
Pronunciation of Dignity: Dignity is pronounced dig-ni-tee.
How to Use Dignity in a Sentence
What does dignity mean? Dignity is a noun. It refers to a state of being worthy of respect or honor or to the way one carries himself with seriousness and self-control.
Someone with dignity appears and behaves in such a way that is honored and admired. Dignity is an inherent state of nobility, worth, poise, and/or self-respect.
For example,
- The team acted with grace and dignity in their defeat.
- Their country cherishes human dignity and freedom.
Dignity may also refer to the honor or respect associated with an important position or to the high office or rank itself.
For example,
- The congressman diminished the dignity of his position by accepting a bribe from a lobbyist.
- Due to his promiscuous actions, he was deposed of his dignity as Chief.
Dignitary is related to the word dignity. A dignitary is a person of an exalted rank or high position, holding dignity or honor. The plural of dignitary is dignitaries.
For example,
- The mayor invited many foreign dignitaries to the dinner.
- The foreign dignitary tried to bribe the politician with $1 million.
Phrases & Idioms That Use Dignity
Beneath one’s dignity: fitting for someone considered less important.
- He thought cleaning the floors was beneath his dignity.
History & Etymology of Dignity
Dignity was first used in the 13th century, according to Merriam-Webster’s.
The word dignity comes from Middle English dignete, from the Anglo-French word dignete. Ultimately, the word is of Latin origin, from dignitat-, dignitas from dignus, meaning worthy.
Synonyms for Dignity
As it refers to a high position within society, dignity can be replaced with the following synonyms:
- Class
- Rank
- Fashion
- Quality
- Standing
- State
Outside Examples of Dignity
- In my visits to those three countries, I‘ve been struck by how much more dignity has been accorded to Syrian refugees in Turkey than in Jordan, and especially in Lebanon. – New York Times
- The move comes a week after a U.S. House panel voted largely on party lines to advance a measure that would repeal the city’s Death With Dignity Act. – Washington Post
Summary
Dignity is a noun referring to a sort of stateliness or worthiness or to a high rank or office and the respect that comes with such a position.
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