Deigned: meaning, definitions and examples

to do reluctantly

Deigned means to do something that one considers to be beneath their dignity. It often implies that the person is reluctantly agreeing to engage in an action, showing a sense of superiority or condescension. The term is frequently used to describe an action taken by someone of higher status who reluctantly responds to a request or need, often implying that they consider it an imposition. The use of 'deigned' can evoke feelings of disdain or annoyance at being required to lower oneself in some manner.

condescend, debase oneself, lower oneself, stoop

Examples of usage

• She finally deigned to reply to his message.

• He deigned to participate in the meeting after much reluctance.

• The queen deigned to speak to the commoner.

• After hours of waiting, she deigned to acknowledge my presence.