Basic Details
Word: Dignify
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To make something or someone seem worthy, respected, or important.
Synonyms: Honor, elevate, distinguish
Antonyms: Degrade, demean, belittle
Idioms and Phrases
- Dignify something with a response: To respond to something that is unworthy of attention. Example: "He didn't dignify the insult with a response."
- Dignify the occasion: To make an event seem more formal or special. Example: "The ambassador's presence dignified the occasion."
Usage Examples
Example 1: She refused to dignify the rude comment with a reply.
Example 2: The award ceremony was dignified by the presence of several renowned scholars.
Example 3: His humble attitude dignified his position as a leader.
Fun Fact
The word "dignify" comes from the Latin word "dignus," meaning "worthy." It was first used in English in the late Middle Ages to describe making something appear more noble or worthy of respect.
Famous Quote
"We do not dignify the past by refusing to learn from it." - John Lewis
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "dignify" mean?
a) To ignore something
b) To make something seem important or worthy
c) To make fun of someone
d) To hide something
Answer: b) To make something seem important or worthy
2. Which of these is a synonym of "dignify"?
a) Degrade
b) Elevate
c) Belittle
d) Demean
Answer: b) Elevate
3. Which is an antonym of "dignify"?
a) Distinguish
b) Honor
c) Demean
d) Respect
Answer: c) Demean
4. Which sentence uses "dignify" correctly?
a) She dignified the child for eating too fast.
b) He tried to dignify the broken chair with a coat of paint.
c) The speaker dignified his speech with jokes.
d) I dignify my shoes when it rains.
Answer: b) He tried to dignify the broken chair with a coat of paint.
5. What does the idiom "dignify something with a response" mean?
a) To make something seem better
b) To give a response out of respect
c) To honor someone publicly
d) To respond even when it may not be worth it
Answer: d) To respond even when it may not be worth it
