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.
Singapore’s Grand Dame Hotels While Raffles Singapore might be Singapore’s oldest and most famous hotel, its not the only grand dame in town and Shangri-La Singapore is another icon of the City State, as well as the go-to choice for visiting dignitaries. Nicole Trilivas, Forbes.com, 8 Apr. 2025 The tree has long been the site where past presidents have welcomed foreign dignitaries. Rachel Raposas, People.com, 31 Mar. 2025 Singapore’s Grand Dame Hotels While Raffles Singapore might be Singapore’s oldest and most famous hotel, its not the only grand dame in town and Shangri-La Singapore is another icon of the City State, as well as the go-to choice for visiting dignitaries. Nicole Trilivas, Forbes.com, 8 Apr. 2025 The Canadian dignitary, who's cradling Noah, agrees to consider sending her country's refugees back. EW.com, 8 Apr. 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 23 Apr. 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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