What does prestige mean?
Prestige is the reputation, esteem, or distinguished standing of a person, institution, achievement, or place. It is commonly associated with organizations and individuals that have attracted recognition, such as respected universities, influential publications, celebrated artists, or important awards. The word often suggests more than simple popularity: prestige implies lasting reputation, authority, or social distinction. In phrases such as “international prestige” or “political prestige,” it emphasizes recognition extending beyond a local context. Prestige is also used when an action could enhance the standing of a person or organization, as in preserving or protecting an institution’s prestige. The related adjective prestigious describes something that enjoys such recognition, while the noun refers to the reputation or status itself. Although generally complimentary, the word can sometimes draw attention to hierarchy or socially valued status.
nounThe esteem, reputation, or distinguished standing attached to a person, institution, place, or achievement. It can also refer to the authority or social prestige associated with a particular position or organization.
- Esteem, favorable reputation, or renown attached to a person, institution, achievement, or place.
- High social standing, authority, or distinction associated with a position, organization, or field.
"The university's international prestige was enhanced by its breakthrough research."
"The restoration of the historic building brought renewed prestige to the town."
"Her reputation for accuracy gave the newspaper considerable journalistic prestige."
The plural is grammatically regular but uncommon; prestige is usually used in the singular or as a mass noun.
"The two institutions cultivated very different national prestiges."
Prestige began as a word for deception: its Latin ancestor meant “tricks” or “illusions.”
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of prestige
The word entered English from French prestige in the early 16th century. Its immediate Latin source was praestigiae, meaning “tricks” or “illusions,” so its earliest English sense was connected with deception or a deceptive appearance. During the 18th century, the word developed its modern favorable sense of distinguished reputation or standing.
Related word forms
How prestige is actually used
Prestige is a formal word commonly used for institutions, professions, awards, and prominent individuals. It is generally favorable, though it can also imply social exclusivity or status based partly on reputation rather than direct achievement.
Easily confused with prestige
Prestige is the reputation or standing itself, whereas prestigious is the adjective describing someone or something that has prestige.