dignify

Etymology

From Old French dignifier, from Late Latin dignificare; Latin dignus (worthy) + ficare (in comp.), facere (to make). See deign, and fact.

Pronunciation

• (UK) IPA^(key): /ˈdɪɡnɪfaɪ/

Verb

dignify (third-person singular simple present dignifies, present participle dignifying, simple past and past participle dignified)

1. to invest with dignity or honour
2. to give distinction to
3. to exalt in rank
4. to honor.

   Your worth will dignify our feast. - B. Jonson.

5. (usually in the negative) To treat as worthy or acceptable; to indulge or condone by acknowledging.

   I will not dignify that comment with a response.