prestige

[pre-steezh, -steej]

noun

1. reputation or influence arising from success, achievement, rank, or other favorable attributes.

   Synonyms: importance, weight
   Antonyms: disrepute

2. distinction or reputation attaching to a person or thing and thus possessing a cachet for others or for the public.

   The new discothèque has great prestige with the jet set.

adjective

1. having or showing success, rank, wealth, etc.

prestige

/ prɛˈstiːʒ /

noun

1. high status or reputation achieved through success, influence, wealth, etc; renown

2. 1. the power to influence or impress; glamour

   2. ( modifier )

      a prestige car

Other Word Forms

• prestigeful adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of prestige¹

First recorded in 1650–60, for an earlier sense; from French (originally plural): “deceits, delusions, juggler's tricks,” from Latin praestīgiae “juggler's tricks,” variant of praestrīgiae, derivative of praestringere “to blind, blunt,” literally, “to bind hard, tie up,” from prae- pre- + stringere “to draw tight” ( stringent )

Word History and Origins

Origin of prestige¹

C17: via French from Latin praestigiae feats of juggling, tricks; apparently related to Latin praestringere to bind tightly, blindfold, from prae before + stringere to draw tight, bind

Example Sentences

Watching “I Know This Much Is True” invites those of us keeping up with the latest TV releases to ponder how much prestige series productions worship tragedy – violent, miserable, and plain old funky.

From Salon

In the end, what distinguishes “Mare of Easttown” from the typical murder mystery and other prestige shows – besides Winslet’s superior performance – is the way it swims with and through grief.

From Salon

As secrets are exposed and her marriage is threatened, Layla questions whether prestige is worth the cost.

From Los Angeles Times

The building has lost some of its prestige since its prime, but remains a presence in the downtown skyline.

From Los Angeles Times

Some people wear watches to appear conscientious, professional; to others, it signals status or prestige.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• cachet 
• dignity 
• esteem 
• importance 
• power 
• prominence 
• reputation 
• standing 
• stature 
• status 
• weight