Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Prestige \Pres"tige\ (?; 277), n. [F., fr. L. praestigum
   delusion, illusion, praestigae deceptions, jugglers' tricks,
   prob. fr. prae before + the root of stinguere to extinguish,
   originally, to prick. See {Stick}, v.]
   1. Delusion; illusion; trick. [Obs.]

            The sophisms of infidelity, and the prestiges of
            imposture.                            --Bp.
                                                  Warburton.

   2. Weight or influence derived from past success; expectation
      of future achievements founded on those already
      accomplished; force or charm derived from acknowledged
      character or reputation. ``The prestige of his name must
      go for something.'' --Sir G. C. Lewis.

Source : WordNet®

prestige
     n : a high standing achieved through success or influence or
         wealth etc.; "he wanted to achieve power and prestige"
         [syn: {prestigiousness}]