'indignity' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'indignitas,' where 'in-' meant 'not' and 'dignitas' meant 'worthiness.'

'indignitas' transformed into the Old French word 'indignité,' and eventually became the modern English word 'indignity' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'unworthiness or disgrace,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'an act that causes shame or loss of dignity.'