Definition

To do something that one considers to be beneath one's dignity; to condescend to grant or give something.

Example

She would not deign to respond to his rude comments.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I can't believe she wouldn't even deign to reply to my message.

That's surprising, especially since you always help her out.

I know, right? It feels a bit rude of her.

Maybe she's just busy, but it still would have been nice if she acknowledged you.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Deign comes from the Old French 'daigner' (meaning to deem worthy) and is derived from the Latin 'dignari' (meaning to consider worthy). The word 'deign' means to do something that one considers to be beneath one's dignity or to condescend to do something.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who 'considers' ('dignari') something 'worthy' ('deign') to do, even if it seems beneath them.

Visually Confused Words