dignify

verb

dig·​ni·​fy ˈdig-nə-ˌfī 

dignified; dignifying

transitive verb

1

: to give distinction to : ennoble

2

: to confer dignity upon

also : to give undue attention or status to

won't dignify that remark with a reply

Synonyms

• aggrandize
• canonize
• deify
• elevate
• ennoble
• enshrine
• ensky
• enthrone
• exalt
• glorify
• magnify

Examples of dignify in a Sentence

She felt that formal clothing would help dignify the occasion.

He said he wouldn't dignify his opponents' accusations by responding to them.

Recent Examples on the Web

An early title card commemorating James Earl Jones, who died in September at age 93 and whose sonorous voice dignified and shaped the character of Mufasa for generations of Lion King fans, strikes a tender chord. —Lovia Gyarkye, The Hollywood Reporter, 17 Dec. 2024

Inclusion of migrants is not only what allows for dignifying policy but a thinning of the immense polarization haunting U.S. politics. —Juan Wulff, Newsweek, 13 Dec. 2024

Those countries recognizing Palestine or advocating for a two-state outcome must help ensure that the Palestinian state has a fighting chance to dignify its people with proper services and regain the public’s trust. —Shira Efron, Foreign Affairs, 17 July 2024

This grand gathering was dignified by the presence of key luminaries drawn from multifarious sectors. —Gorgeous Beauty, New York Daily News, 1 Mar. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English dignifien, from Middle French dignifier, from Late Latin dignificare, from Latin dignus worthy — more at decent

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

dignify

verb

dig·​ni·​fy ˈdig-nə-ˌfī 

dignified; dignifying

: to give dignity or importance to : honor