Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Dignitary \Dig"ni*ta*ry\, n.; pl. {Dignitaries}. [Cf. F.
   dignitaire, fr. L. dignitas.]
   One who possesses exalted rank or holds a position of dignity
   or honor; especially, one who holds an ecclesiastical rank
   above that of a parochial priest or clergyman.