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.
This year, the hotel will celebrate 150 years as an icon of Southern hospitality, hosting presidents, dignitaries, and everyday folks. Cynthia J Drake, Southern Living, 25 Feb. 2026 The optics of their absence may not be apparent inside the chamber, as the Senate, Cabinet, Supreme Court and other dignitaries fill the already-crowded space. Sarah Beth Hensley, ABC News, 23 Feb. 2026 Post, heiress to the cereal maker’s fortune, entertained ambassadors and dignitaries at the mansion. Miami Herald Archives, Miami Herald, 22 Feb. 2026 After the war, Julian joined a delegation of American dignitaries on a trip to Europe that included a stop in Berlin. Nicholas Lemann, New Yorker, 21 Feb. 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

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Cite this Entry

“Dignitary.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dignitary. Accessed 27 Feb. 2026.

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

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