Prestige
Etymology
From French "prestige," from Latin "praestigium" (an illusion, a conjuror’s trick), related to "praestigiae" (deceptions, sleight of hand). Strikingly, the word meant “dazzling deception” before it drifted in the nineteenth century to its current sense of admired reputation — a trace of illusion still clings to it.
noun · /preh-STEEZH/
Widespread respect and admiration earned through reputation, achievement, or association.
What it names
Standing that rests on perception and reputation rather than on formal power or wealth — the glow of being esteemed.
Example
The prize carried little cash but enormous prestige, and applicants chased it for the name alone.
Related idea
Related to status, but distinct: status is one’s rank or position in a hierarchy, while prestige is the admiration attached to it — one can hold high status with little prestige, or command prestige with no official rank at all.