auväärset

auväärset is the partitive singular form of the Estonian adjective auväärne, meaning honorable, esteemed, or dignified. In Estonian, adjectives agree with the noun they modify in number and case, and the partitive singular ending for this adjective is -set. Thus auväärset mutates to auväärset when describing a singular noun in the partitive case.

The form is a grammatical inflection, not a separate dictionary entry. It is used whenever the noun it modifies is in the partitive case, typically after verbs that require a partitive object or in expressions indicating an indefinite quantity. For example: Ma kohtasin auväärset inimest. This translates to “I met an honorable (or esteemed) person.” Here, inimest is the partitive singular of inimene (person), paired with auväärset.

Etymology and usage notes: the Estonian adjective auväärne is formed from au, meaning “honor,” and väär, meaning “worthy,” reflecting a sense of honor or esteem. The word is commonly applied to people, institutions, or objects regarded with respect or prestige. In formal or literary contexts, auväärne and its inflected forms are used to convey reverence or high esteem.

Related terms include the base adjective auväärne, the noun auväärkus (honor, prestige), and related adverbial forms such as auväärselt. While auväärset represents a specific grammatical form, the broader concept centers on honor, dignity, and respected status within Estonian language use.