† diˈgnesse Obs.
[a. AFr. *dignesse, f. digne worthy + -esse repr. L. -itia: cf. bassesse, richesse, vilesse, etc.]
Worthiness, dignity; haughtiness.
| 1399 Langl. Rich. Redeles iii. 127 Swiche ffresshe ffoodis beth ffeet in to chambris, And ffor her dignesse en-dauntid of dullisshe nollis. |