/dayn/ , v.i.
1. to think fit or in accordance with one's dignity; condescend: He would not deign to discuss the matter with us.
v.t.
2. to condescend to give or grant: He deigned no reply.
3. Obs. to condescend to accept.
[ 1250-1300; ME deinen deignier dignari to judge worthy, equiv. to dign ( us ) worthy + -ari inf. suffix ]