Ennoble (/ɪˈnoʊbl/) is a verb that means to elevate or give honor to someone or something. The spelling of ennoble can be broken down into four syllables: en-no-ble, with the first syllable pronounced "en" as in "end", the second syllable pronounced "no" as in "note", the third syllable pronounced "ble" as in "able." The accent is placed on the second syllable. The word comes from the Old French verb ‘ennobler’ which means exactly the same thing.
Ennoble is a transitive verb that means to elevate or elevate in status, dignity, or nobility. This term is often used to describe the act of raising someone or something to a higher level of importance, honor, or worthiness.
When a person is ennobled, they are given a higher rank, title, or distinction, which grants them more privileges, respect, and influence in society. This typically occurs through a formal process like knighthood, peerage, or some other form of official recognition. By being ennobled, individuals are regarded with a higher esteem and are often associated with a sense of prestige, class, or refinement.
Additionally, to ennoble can also refer to the process of enhancing the qualities or characteristics of something in a figurative sense. This can involve elevating an idea, a concept, or an artistic creation to a superior level of refinement, beauty, or significance. It implies transforming something ordinary or mundane into something extraordinary, remarkable, or inspiring.
Overall, to ennoble is to bestow or obtain a higher position, status, or value, whether it is for a person or an intangible entity. It signifies a process of upliftment and enhancement, enhancing the worth, honor, or stature of the subject being ennobled, thereby conferring a greater sense of importance and respect upon it.
To elevate; to raise to nobility; to exalt; to dignify.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word ennoble originated in Middle English around the 14th century, deriving from the Old French term ennoblir. The Old French word was itself a combination of the prefix en- (meaning to make or to cause to be) and the word noble, derived from the Latin term nobilis (meaning of high birth or excellent). Thus, ennoble essentially means to make noble or to elevate in rank or character.