méltóság

Méltóság is a Hungarian noun that primarily denotes dignity, majesty, or prestige. It can refer to the inherent worth and self-respect of a person (emberi méltóság) as well as to the rank or office a person holds in social, political, or ceremonial contexts. The word encompasses both an internal sense of value and an external status.

Etymology: Méltóság is formed from the adjective méltó, meaning worthy, with the abstract-noun suffix -ság. The term thus expresses the state or quality of being worthy.

Senses and usage: In everyday language, méltóság conveys personal dignity and self-respect, as in discussions of ethical conduct or human worth. In formal language, it appears in expressions related to rank or ceremonial address; forms such as méltóságos úr/asszony or related honorifics have historically been used to refer to persons with high rank. In legal and philosophical contexts, méltóság is used to discuss social or constitutional concepts, most notably human dignity (emberi méltóság), a fundamental value protected by law and human rights frameworks in Hungary and beyond.

Legal and cultural context: The phrase emberi méltóság is commonly invoked in constitutional and ethical discussions to emphasize the inherent worth of every person. The term also features in official rhetoric and historical texts dealing with state, church, or diplomatic offices, where it signals a recognized status or ceremonial respect.

See also: Dignity, human rights, honorifics, Hungarian law.