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Ennobled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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ennobled

[ɛˈnoʊbld ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

elevated status

To ennoble someone means to elevate their status or rank, often by means of giving them a title of nobility. This action can occur in various historical contexts where individuals are granted nobility for their services or accomplishments. It also carries a more general meaning of enhancing someone's reputation or making them seem more dignified or honorable. The term can also imply moral improvement, suggesting that an individual has been raised to a higher moral standard.

Synonyms

dignify, elevate, exalt, honor, uplift.

Examples of usage

  • He was ennobled by the king for his bravery.
  • Her charitable actions ennobled her in the eyes of the community.
  • The playwright's works ennobled the human experience.
  • Winning the award ennobled his artistic vision.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Historical Context

  • In medieval Europe, kings could ennoble individuals, granting them titles and land in recognition of their service.
  • The process of ennoblement was often linked to social mobility, allowing commoners to ascend the hierarchy.
  • Ennobled figures have often played significant roles in shaping laws and social structures, reflecting their elevated status.

Literature

  • In literature, characters may be ennobled by acts of bravery or sacrifice, signifying moral growth.
  • Works by authors like Shakespeare explore the theme of ennoblement through struggles with power and identity.
  • The rise of the 'noble savage' concept in literature reflects the idea that true nobility comes from purity and goodness, not from titles.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers like Kant discussed ennoblement in terms of moral and ethical progress, suggesting that individuals can achieve virtue.
  • The idea of ennobling one's character through self-improvement and altruism is prevalent in various philosophical discourses.
  • Socrates emphasized the ennoblement of the soul through knowledge and virtue, setting a foundation for ethical frameworks.

Cultural References

  • Many fairy tales depict characters who are ennobled through acts of kindness or by defeating evil, reinforcing moral lessons.
  • In modern media, ennoblement shows up in stories of transformation, where characters rise above their circumstances to achieve greatness.
  • The phrase 'to ennoble the spirit' is often used in motivational contexts, suggesting personal growth and upliftment.

Origin of 'ennobled'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old French 'enoble', which means to make noble or exalt.
  • It is derived from the Latin 'nobilis', referring to 'known' or 'famous', connected to social status.
  • The prefix 'en-' suggests the action of making something into its state, enhancing the meaning.

The word 'ennobled' is derived from the Old French term 'enobleir', which means 'to make noble'. The root of this French word can be traced back to the Latin 'nobilis', meaning 'famous' or 'notable'. The evolution of the term reflects historical practices of granting nobility, typically in European contexts, where kings or monarchs would bestow titles upon individuals, officially recognizing their service or contributions to the realm. Throughout history, ennoblement has been associated not just with social status but also with virtues such as honor and integrity. The concept also transcends mere titles, suggesting a moral or ethical elevation alongside the social. Over the centuries, the meaning has broadened to include any action that raises someone's stature, both in society and morale. In contemporary usage, it retains a sense of improving one's character or reputation in addition to formal noble status.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,211, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.