dignity

Where does the word "dignity" come from? It comes from Latin dignitas, passing through Old French before entering English (1200s).

Dignity’s story begins in Latin: dignitas meant “worthiness, rank.” From 'dignus', worthy. By medieval, the word had taken hold in Old French as dignité. A high office or title. It reached English by 1200s as dignity. 'dignitary' for high officials comes from the same word. Today, dignity means the state of being worthy of respect.

1. Stage 1 · Latin · ancient dignitas "worthiness, rank", from 'dignus', worthy.
2. Stage 2 · Old French · medieval dignité "honour, rank", a high office or title.
3. Stage 3 · English · 1200s dignity "worthiness; rank", 'dignitary' for high officials comes from the same word.