n. (pl. -ies) 1 a composed and serious manner or style. 2 the state of being worthy of honour or respect. 3 worthiness, excellence (the dignity of work). 4 a high or honourable rank or position. 5 high regard or estimation. beneath one's dignity not considered worthy enough for one to do. stand on one's dignity insist (esp. by one's manner) on being treated with due respect.
[ ME f. OF digneté, dignité f. L dignitas -tatis f. dignus worthy ]