Dignation

/dɪɡˈneɪʃən/ noun

Definition

The act or condition of pointing at something with one's finger; the state of being worthy or deemed suitable.

Etymology

From Latin 'dignatus,' past participle of 'dignari' (to deem worthy), and the suffix '-tion'. This learned term combines the idea of pointing (gesture) with worthiness or approval.

Kelly Says

This wonderfully obscure word captures something we do every day—a parent pointing at their child with pride, literally 'dignating' them as worthy—but barely anyone remembers the word!

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