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.
When the drama’s primary source of tension is what menu to serve a visiting dignitary, there’s no risk of watching a gory beheading with your mom. — Alison Herman, Variety, 22 Oct. 2026 Yarbrough, who died at age 76 on Saturday, would be stationed at the table throughout the GHSA playoffs, sometimes welcoming guests and dignitaries and otherwise answering questions and solving problems. — Stan Awtrey, AJC.com, 20 Oct. 2026 Since King Charles’ accession to the throne in 2022, Prince William and his wife, Kate Middleton, have regularly taken on the role of welcoming visiting foreign dignitaries. — Meredith Kile, PEOPLE, 20 Oct. 2026 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 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

Rhymes for dignitary

See All Rhymes for dignitary

Browse Nearby Words

dignitarial
dignitary
dignity
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

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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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