dignify

verb

dig·​ni·​fy ˈdig-nə-ˌfī 

dignified; dignifying

transitive verb

1

: to give distinction to : ennoble

2

: to confer dignity upon

They hoped formal clothing would help dignify the occasion.

also : to give undue attention or status to

won't dignify that remark with a reply

Synonyms of dignify

• elevate
• promote

Examples of dignify in a Sentence

She felt that formal clothing would help dignify the occasion.

He said he wouldn't dignify his opponents' accusations by responding to them.

Recent Examples on the Web

That’s what dignified the Rolling Stones. — Jeff Miller, Rolling Stone, 14 Apr. 2026

Mayor Melvin Carter was ramrod straight and dignified in his concession. — Joe Soucheray, Twin Cities, 8 Nov. 2025

Carucci offers some possible avenues to dignify the worker and challenge them to make greater achievements. — Neil Senturia, San Diego Union-Tribune, 22 Sep. 2025

The incarnation dignified the material world, which is good, though in constant need of repair and healing. — Peter Wehner, The Atlantic, 10 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English dignifien, from Middle French dignifier, from Late Latin dignificare, from Latin dignus worthy — more at decent

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for dignify

• abscissae
• adonai
• alibi
• alkali
• alumni
• amoebae
• amplify
• annuli
• beautify
• brachii
• butterfly
• calculi

Kids Definition

dignify

verb

dig·​ni·​fy ˈdig-nə-ˌfī 

dignified; dignifying

: to give dignity or importance to : honor