0 present participle of dignify
1 to cause something to be respected and considered important
Gaskell's style is notable for dignifying the use of local dialect words by putting them into the voice of her characters, and of the narrator.
The idea of dignifying commonplace objects in this way was originally a shocking challenge to the accepted distinction between what was considered "art" as opposed to "not art".
Earning a decent income in the private sector, it is argued, is also more dignifying than relying on hand-outs.
Being able to respond to the vulnerability of patients in a way that provides dignifying care is a key concept in the field.
It sets out with apodictic firmness specific claims of their own side, and without even dignifying the other side by name treats its vital concerns with oracular obliqueness.
All of these are definite undertakings which will have the effect dignifying the countryside.
I think that would be dignifying it by too great a name.
Therefore, by taking it at that rational level, it is dignifying what is put before us.
