dignitary
UK: ˈdɪɡnɪtəri | US: ˈdɪɡnɪteri
n. a person of high rank or position, especially in government or the church
n. an official considered to be important due to their status or title
dignitary = dign<worth> + itary<noun suffix>
- dign (from Latin dignus, meaning "worthy" or "deserving")
- itary (a suffix forming nouns, often indicating a person associated with a quality or role)
Etymology Origin:
The word "dignitary" traces back to the Latin dignitas (worthiness, merit), derived from dignus (worthy). Over time, it evolved through Old French dignité before entering Middle English as "dignitee," eventually adopting the suffix "-ary" to denote a person embodying dignity or high status. The term reflects societal values, linking worthiness to formal authority or prestige.
The conference was attended by numerous dignitaries from around the world.
The mayor greeted the foreign dignitary with a formal handshake.
As a dignitary, she was invited to speak at the United Nations assembly.
The hotel reserved its finest suite for the visiting dignitary.
Security was tightened to protect the dignitaries during the summit.