värdig

Värdig is a Swedish adjective meaning "worthy" or "dignified." It describes someone or something that merits respect, trust, or esteem, or that deserves a particular status or treatment. The related noun värdighet denotes dignity or worthiness. In everyday language värdig is often used about people, for example en värdig vinnare (a worthy winner) or en värdig motståndare (a worthy opponent). It can also describe conduct or appearance: ett värdigt uppträdande, att handla värdigt. The adverbial form is värdigt, as in han uppträdde värdigt. The comparative and superlative forms are mer värdig and mest värdig.

Etymology: värdig derives from a value-related base, värde (value, worth), with the suffix -ig, creating an adjective meaning "having value" or "worthy." The noun värdighet is built from värdig with the abstract suffix -het, forming "dignity" or "worthiness." The word is common in formal, literary, or ethical discussions and may appear in public discourse when describing a person’s character or deserved status.

Usage notes: värdig is typically used in more formal or elevated contexts than everyday speech. It often carries a moral or normative connotation, relating to whether someone or something deserves respect or consideration. Related terms include värde (value) and värdighet (dignity).