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

About 75 friends, family and local dignitaries gathered at Paul’s Family Restaurant at the corner of Lawrence Avenue and McLean Boulevard to honor its 65th year in Elgin. — Rick West, Chicago Tribune, 23 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

Also among the dignitaries present was the Israeli foreign minister, Gideon Sa’ar, who came to Colombia amid a wider mission to shore up support for his nation. — Ishaan Tharoor, New Yorker, 13 Aug. 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