Dignification

/ˌdɪɡnɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/ noun

Definition

The act of making something seem more worthy, elevated, or impressive; the process of giving dignity to something.

Etymology

From 'dignify' (to make dignified) plus '-tion'. Developed in the 16th century as English philosophers and rhetoricians needed words for elevating status through language or action.

Kelly Says

Politicians and advertisers are masters at dignification—they take ordinary things and use fancy language to make them seem noble, like calling junk mail 'communications' or layoffs 'restructuring!'

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