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Ennoble Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ‘‘
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ennoble

[ษชหˆnษ™สŠbl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in a positive light

To ennoble means to elevate in rank, dignity, or esteem. It is the act of giving someone a higher social status or moral character.

Synonyms

dignify, elevate, uplift.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ennoble

Used when talking about giving something or someone a higher rank or making them more noble or morally superior.

  • His brave actions during the war ennobled his family's name.
  • The artistโ€™s work ennobles everyday life.
elevate

Commonly used when discussing raising someone to a higher status, level, or more important position. Can also refer to physical lifting or increasing quality.

  • The promotion elevated her career to new heights.
  • The program aims to elevate the standard of education in rural areas.
dignify

Best used when you mean to make something seem worthy of respect or honor. Often used ironically to refer to something unworthy.

  • She tried to dignify her decision by explaining her reasons.
  • I wouldn't dignify his rude comment with a response.
uplift

Typically used when referring to raising someone's spirits or improving their condition. Often has an emotional or inspirational connotation.

  • Her kind words uplifted everyone around her.
  • The community event was designed to uplift the local residents.

Examples of usage

  • The king decided to ennoble the commoner for his bravery in battle.
  • Her charitable work has helped ennoble her reputation in the community.
Context #2 | Verb

through recognition or honor

To ennoble can also mean to confer a title of nobility or honor upon someone, thus recognizing their achievements or contributions.

Synonyms

acknowledge, dignify, honor.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ennoble

Used when someone or something is made to feel more noble or honorable, often elevating their status or character.

  • The artist's work ennobled the common people by portraying them in grand, heroic scenes
  • This act of bravery ennobles his entire family
honor

Used to show high respect, reverence, or esteem, often in recognition of someone's achievements or qualities.

  • The town held a parade to honor the local hero
  • She was honored with an award for her lifetime achievements in science
dignify

Used when something is made to seem worthy or impressive, often adding a sense of respect or seriousness.

  • The new uniform dignified the appearance of the staff
  • He tried to dignify the conversation by addressing the serious issues at hand
acknowledge

Used to recognize or admit the existence, truth, or fact of something, often showing awareness or appreciation.

  • She acknowledged his help during the project
  • The company acknowledged the hard work of its employees with a special award

Examples of usage

  • The queen decided to ennoble the scientist for his groundbreaking research.
  • Being ennobled with a knighthood was a great honor for him.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

History

  • In medieval times, ennobling often referred to granting titles of nobility to commoners, elevating their social status.
  • Rulers historically ennobled individuals as a reward for loyalty or bravery, demonstrating the importance of honor in society.

Literature

  • Jean-Paul Sartre's philosophy touches on ennobling human existence through choices that reflect integrity and authenticity.
  • In classic literature, characters often seek to ennoble themselves through acts of heroism or moral courage.

Psychology

  • Research suggests that acts of kindness can ennoble a person's self-image, enhancing their sense of worth.
  • Engaging in meaningful activities can lead to personal ennoblement, impacting mental health positively.

Pop Culture

  • In film and literature, characters who start off flawed can go through a journey of ennoblement, showcasing growth and redemption.
  • The idea of ennobling someone often appears in hero narratives, where the protagonist inspires others to be better.

Origin of 'ennoble'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Latin 'ennobilare', which means to make famous or noble.
  • It combines 'nobilis', meaning noble or well-known, implying an elevation in status.

The word 'ennoble' has its origins in Middle English and Old French, coming from the Latin word 'nobilis' meaning 'noble'. Over the centuries, the term evolved to represent the act of elevating someone to a higher status or recognizing their achievements. The concept of ennoblement has been prevalent in various societies as a way to honor individuals for their contributions or virtues.

See also: nobility, noble, nobleman, nobleness, nobles, noblewoman, nobly.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,842 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.