dignitary

noun

dig·​ni·​tary ˈdig-nə-ˌter-ē How to pronounce dignitary (audio)
-ˌte-rē
plural dignitaries
Synonyms of dignitarynext
: one who possesses exalted rank or holds a position of dignity or honor
dignitary adjective

Examples of dignitary in a Sentence

The dinner was attended by many foreign dignitaries.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Barbers and tattoo artists prepared to become drivers for delegates and student volunteers to usher dignitaries. — ABC News, 30 Aug. 2026 The opening ceremony gathered church dignitaries, community members and local officials. — Gina Grillo, Chicago Tribune, 24 Aug. 2026 Trump has argued for months that the new ballroom is a necessity, often pointing to the lack of space to host events with foreign dignitaries. — Deepa Shivaram, NPR, 21 Aug. 2026 The solicitor general said a new and secure ballroom is also crucial for social gatherings and foreign dignitaries. — Los Angeles Times, 18 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for dignitary

Word History

First Known Use

1635, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dignitary was in 1635

Rhymes for dignitary

See All Rhymes for dignitary

Browse Nearby Words

dignitarial
dignitary
dignity
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Dignitary.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dignitary. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

dignitary

noun
dig·​ni·​tary ˈdig-nə-ˌter-ē How to pronounce dignitary (audio)
plural dignitaries
: a person of high position or honor
dignitaries of the church

More from Merriam-Webster on dignitary

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for dignitary

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