dignitary

noun

dig·​ni·​tary ˈdig-nə-ˌter-ē 

-ˌte-rē

plural dignitaries

: 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

By the late 1800s, the resort was a favorite destination for US Presidents (23 presidents have visited the property), foreign dignitaries and global business leaders. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026

The pop-up was up for three days to coincide with United Nations general assembly meeting, which saw the convergence of world leaders, dignitaries and CEOs on the city. — Katie Kilkenny, HollywoodReporter, 30 Sep. 2026

Her decision to work with a designer from a visiting dignitary’s home country is a practice that some first ladies have adopted in the past for state visits. — Rosemary Feitelberg, Footwear News, 30 Sep. 2026

Vroman’s catered to various clientele and communities, from traveling dignitaries to academics and leisure readers on vacation. — Los Angeles Times, 25 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1635, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for dignitary

• accessary
• adversary
• ancillary
• apiary
• arbitrary
• aviary
• axillary
• bacillary
• beriberi
• bestiary
• breviary
• budgetary

Kids Definition

dignitary

noun

dig·​ni·​tary ˈdig-nə-ˌter-ē 

plural dignitaries

: a person of high position or honor

dignitaries of the church