dignity
Dignity (noun) means the quality of being worthy of respect; a calm, composed sense of self-worth. Example: “She handled the insult with quiet dignity.”
How to use dignity
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSelf-respect and worth, or (less commonly) a position of honor.
Word forms
dignities plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She handled the insult with quiet _____.
Etymology
From Old French dignité, from Latin dignitas, "worthiness," from dignus, "worthy."
Synonyms
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Rhymes for dignity
See all rhymes for dignity →Frequently asked questions
What does “dignity” mean?
The word “dignity” means the quality of being worthy of respect; a calm, composed sense of self-worth. In plain terms, self-respect and worth, or (less commonly) a position of honor.
How do you pronounce “dignity”?
“Dignity” is pronounced DIHG-nih-tee (/ˈdɪɡnɪti/ in IPA).
How do you use “dignity” in a sentence?
Here is “dignity” used in a sentence: “She handled the insult with quiet dignity.”
What is another word for “dignity”?
Words with a similar meaning to “dignity” include worth and worthiness.
What part of speech is “dignity”?
“Dignity” is a noun.
Where does the word “dignity” come from?
The word “dignity” comes from Latin. From Old French dignité, from Latin dignitas, "worthiness," from dignus, "worthy.".
Is “dignity” a common word?
“Dignity” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “dignity” have?
“Dignity” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the quality of being worthy of respect; a calm, composed sense of self-worth.
What is the difference between dignity and respect?
Dignity is the quality of being worthy of respect — a calm, composed sense of self-worth that a person carries. Respect is the regard that others show toward that worth. In other words, dignity belongs to the person, while respect is given by others.
What is the difference between dignity and pride?
Dignity is a calm, composed sense of self-worth that commands respect from others. Pride is satisfaction in one's own achievements or qualities, and in excess it can shade into arrogance. A person can lose their pride and still keep their dignity, because dignity rests on inner worth rather than on accomplishment.
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