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dignity
This word describes an internal sense of worth that remains constant regardless of external circumstances. It is often associated with a quiet, composed strength and a refusal to be degraded or humiliated. When someone acts with dignity, they are adhering to a personal or social standard of nobility and self-respect.
In legal or human rights contexts, it shifts toward an inherent, universal quality that every person possesses by virtue of being human. This version of the word is less about a personal trait and more about a fundamental right to be treated with basic decency and respect, regardless of status or behavior.
Uncountable when referring to the abstract quality of self-respect or nobility. Countable when referring to a specific instance or a particular type of dignified behavior.
Meanings
Examples
He has dignity.
Keep your dignity.
Dignity is important.
She faced the crowd with dignity.
He lost his dignity in public.
They treated the prisoners with dignity.
The captain maintained his dignity during the trial.
She walked away with her dignity intact.
The knight fought to preserve his dignity.
The CEO resigned with grace and dignity.
We must uphold the inherent dignity of all people.
I apologize for the lapse in my dignity.