Deferential: meaning, definitions and examples

When you want to show that someone is very respectful towards someone in authority or someone they admire.

• He gave a deferential bow to the queen
• The student listened with a deferential attitude

When showing admiration or regard for someone’s abilities, qualities or achievements.

• The respectful student listened carefully to the professor
• He was very respectful towards the elderly

When emphasizing good manners and polite behavior in a general sense.

• She was very courteous and always helped her neighbors
• He gave a courteous reply despite being tired

General use for everyday interactions to describe someone who exhibits good manners and avoids being rude.

• He was very polite and held the door open for her
• She always says 'please' and 'thank you,' she's very polite

Used to describe someone who follows orders and rules without question, often seen in hierarchical structures like the military or in children.

• The obedient soldier followed every command without hesitation
• The obedient child tidied up his room when asked

Used to describe someone who willingly allows others to control or have power over them, often with a negative connotation of lacking self-assertion.

• She was submissive to her boss's unreasonable demands
• The dog was submissive, rolling over on its back