Agency Dictionary
Dignity
nounPronunciation: /ˈdɪɡ.nə.ti/
In Portuguese: Dignidade
Philosophy & EthicsWhat does “Dignity” mean?
The quality of being worthy of honor, esteem, and ethical respect; a composed, self-respecting conduct under adversity.
Etymology
From Old French dignité, from Latin dignitas, "worthiness, merit, rank", derived from dignus, "worthy, fitting", which is related to decus ("honour") and decet ("it is fitting"). The word has been in English since the early Middle English period, at first mainly for high rank or office and the bearing that goes with it. Dainty is the same Latin word in a form worn down by popular French, and deign comes from the related Latin verb.
Synonyms
- self-respect
- honour
- nobility
- worth
- composure
- decorum
Word family
- dignify
- dignified
- dignitary
- indignity
- indignant
- deign
Usage examples
Some people pursue wealth and power at all costs but exchange immutable resources in that process, like dignity and human values.
Source editions
Where this entry comes from in the Agency editorial.
Words of the same theme
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- Ambiguitynoun
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Also from these editions: terms
- Ambiguousadjective
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- Anesthetizeverb
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- Taboonoun
- A social, cultural, or religious prohibition restricting a particular practice, discussion, or association under moral penalty.
- Vulnerabilitynoun
- The state of being susceptible to physical, emotional, or moral wounding; openness to risk, grief, and honest exposure.
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