Ignobility Meaning and Definition
Ignobility
Pronunciation
/ˌɪɡˈnɒbɪlɪti/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A lack of nobility or dignity, often characterized by base or mean qualities.
Examples
- The company’s ignobility in prioritizing profits over worker safety was exposed.
- The politician’s speeches often focused on petty squabbles, revealing his ignobility.
Synonyms
- Meanness
- Shamelessness
- Scoundrelism
Antonyms
- Nobility
- Dignity
- Honor
Etymology
The word “ignobility” comes from Latin “ignobilitas”, meaning “lack of nobility”, and is derived from the prefix “igno-” meaning “without” and “nobilitas” meaning “nobility”.
Usage Notes
Ignobility is often used to describe an individual’s character or behavior, particularly in situations where they are acting in a way that is considered unbecoming or lacking in dignity.
Cultural References
In literature, ignobility is a recurring theme in works such as Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” and “Hamlet”, where characters struggle with their own ignobility and moral decay.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Act of ignobility” – a cowardly or dishonorable act
- “Lack of ignobility” – a surplus of noble or dignified qualities
Related Words or Phrases
- Nobility
- Dignity
- Honor
- Character
Collocations
- ignobility of soul
- ignobility of heart
Frequency of Use
While “ignobility” is not a commonly used word in everyday conversation, it is still found in literary and philosophical contexts where it is used to describe the human condition.
Common Misspellings
- ignobliety
- ingnobility