dignitary

noun

dig·​ni·​tary ˈdig-nə-ˌter-ē How to pronounce dignitary (audio)
-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
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.
Over the past century, The Rod & Gun Club has hosted presidents, dignitaries, and celebrities like John Wayne, Burt Reynolds, and Jack Nicklaus. Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 27 July 2025 This resort has hosted global dignitaries, prolific leaders, and tastemakers alike. Ashlee Marie Preston, Forbes.com, 10 July 2025 Lex Yard is named for the building’s physical location atop city train tracks that were used for private transportation of dignitaries and VIPs. Kristen Tauer, Footwear News, 28 June 2025 The historic hotel, originally opened in 1911, has hosted numerous celebrities and dignitaries over the years. Monica Mendal, Vogue, 8 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for dignitary

Word History

First Known Use

1603, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dignitary was in 1603

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Cite this Entry

“Dignitary.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dignitary. Accessed 4 Aug. 2025.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on dignitary

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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