Etymology Map
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Dignity

3 stages from Latin to English.

Today it means the state of being worthy of respect

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

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

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.