Dig'ni-ty, n.
n. [Lat. dignitas, from dignus, worthy; Fr. dignité, Pr. dignitat, Sp. dignidad, Pg. dignidade, It. dignità, degnità.]
Sense 1. The state of being worthy or honorable; elevation of mind or character; honorableness; nobility of sentiment and action; true worth.
Sense 2. Elevation of rank; honorable station; degree of excellence, either in estimation or in the order of nature; preferment; honor; high office, political or ecclesiastical. “The highest dignities of the church.” Macaulay.
Sense 3. Quality suited to inspire respect or reverence; loftiness and elegance; impressiveness;—said of manner, style, &c.
A letter written with singular energy and dignity of thought and language. Macaulay.
Sense 4. One holding high rank; a dignitary.
These filthy dreamers . . . speak evil of dignities. Jude 8.
Sense 5. Fundamental principle; axiom or postulate. [Obs.]
Sciences concluding from dignities, and principles known by themselves. Browne.
Synonyms—See DECORUM.