dignitary DIG-ni-ter-ee noun WS #13

a person who holds a high rank or important position; someone worthy of respect or honor

1. Several government dignitaries attended the memorial service.
2. The university invited a distinguished dignitary to speak at graduation.
3. The dignitary's speech addressed important issues facing the nation.
4. Security was tight when the visiting dignitary arrived at the airport.
5. The foreign dignitary was welcomed with a state dinner at the embassy.