Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary · 1913
Dignitary
Dig′ni·ta·ry (dĭg′nĭ·tā·ry̆), n.; pl. Dignitaries (#). [Cf. F. dignitaire, fr. L. dignitas.] One who possesses exalted rank or holds a position of dignity or honor; especially, one who holds an ecclesiastical rank above that of a parochial priest or clergyman.