Deferential: meaning, definitions and examples

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deferential

 

[ ˌdefəˈrenʃəl ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

in a respectful manner

Showing deference; respectful and considerate towards others.

Synonyms

courteous, obedient, polite, respectful, submissive

Examples of usage

  • She always spoke to her boss in a deferential tone.
  • His deferential attitude towards his elders was appreciated by everyone in the community.

Translations

Translations of the word "deferential" in other languages:

🇵🇹 deferente

🇮🇳 आदरपूर्ण

🇩🇪 ehrerbietig

🇮🇩 menghormati

🇺🇦 шанобливий

🇵🇱 pełen szacunku

🇯🇵 敬意を表する

🇫🇷 déférent

🇪🇸 respetuoso

🇹🇷 saygılı

🇰🇷 공손한

🇸🇦 مبجل

🇨🇿 úctivý

🇸🇰 úctivý

🇨🇳 恭敬的

🇸🇮 spoštljiv

🇮🇸 virðingarfullur

🇰🇿 құрметті

🇬🇪 პატივცემული

🇦🇿 hörmətli

🇲🇽 respetuoso

Etymology

The word 'deferential' originated from the Latin word 'deferentia', which means 'respect' or 'deference'. It first appeared in the English language in the mid-17th century. The concept of showing deference or respect towards others has been valued in various cultures throughout history, emphasizing the importance of humility and consideration for others.

See also: deference, deferment, deferred.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,471, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.