Reverent: meaning, definitions and examples
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reverent
[ˈrɛv(ə)r(ə)nt ]
Definitions
in a religious context
Feeling or showing deep and solemn respect.
Synonyms
honoring, respectful, worshipful.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| reverent |
Used to describe a deep, solemn respect, often in a sacred or religious context.
|
| respectful |
Suitable for everyday situations that require showing regard or consideration for others' feelings, rights, or traditions.
|
| honoring |
Appropriate when showing formal recognition and admiration, typically during ceremonies or special occasions.
|
| worshipful |
Used in religious contexts to express deep respect and adoration, often towards deities or sacred figures.
|
Examples of usage
- He was always reverent towards the sacred relics.
- She bowed her head in reverent prayer.
general context
Feeling or showing deep respect and admiration.
Synonyms
admiring, deferential, venerating.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| reverent |
Used to express a deep respect, often in a formal or religious setting.
|
| admiring |
Used when showing warm approval or respect, often with a sense of appreciation or wonder.
|
| venerating |
Used to express profound respect, often towards something or someone considered sacred or greatly esteemed, with an element of worship.
|
| deferential |
Used to show polite submission and respect, especially towards someone of higher status or authority, often in formal or hierarchical situations.
|
Examples of usage
- The audience fell silent in reverent awe.
- She spoke in a reverent tone about her mentor.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'reverent' comes from the Latin 'reverentia', meaning 'to stand in awe'.
- It first appeared in English texts around the late 14th century.
- The root word 'revere' implies deep respect and honor, forming the basis of the adjective.
Literature
- In literature, characters often display reverent attitudes towards nature, spirituality, or important figures, reflecting deeper themes.
- Famous literature, like Tolstoy's 'War and Peace', often shows reverent descriptions of life and human struggles.
- Many poets use reverent language to convey emotions about love and beauty, enhancing the work's emotional depth.
Cultural Significance
- Different cultures have rituals that reflect reverent behaviors, such as bowing or kneeling in churches or temples.
- In many religions, acts of reverence are vital for worship, symbolizing devotion to a higher power.
- On holidays like Thanksgiving in the U.S., people often show reverence for their ancestors and traditions.
Psychology
- Studies show that experiencing reverence can enhance well-being, promoting feelings of connectedness and belonging.
- Feeling reverent can lead to humility, encouraging individuals to think beyond themselves.
- Reverent experiences are often associated with moments of wonder, like witnessing natural beauty or profound music.
Pop Culture
- In movies, a character's reverent view of their mentor often leads to pivotal moments of growth or transformation.
- Reverence appears in songs that touch on themes of admiration for heroes or important social figures.
- Popular artists sometimes express reverent feelings in their work, illustrating respect for cultural heritage and history.
Translations
Translations of the word "reverent" in other languages:
🇵🇹 reverente
🇮🇳 आदरपूर्ण
🇩🇪 ehrfürchtig
🇮🇩 hormat
🇺🇦 шанобливий
🇵🇱 pełen szacunku
🇯🇵 敬虔な (けいけんな)
🇫🇷 révérencieux
🇪🇸 reverente
🇹🇷 saygılı
🇰🇷 경건한
🇸🇦 مبجل
🇨🇿 uctivý
🇸🇰 úctivý
🇨🇳 虔诚的 (qiánchéng de)
🇸🇮 spoštljiv
🇮🇸 virðingarfullur
🇰🇿 құрметті
🇬🇪 პატივისცემის
🇦🇿 hörmətli
🇲🇽 reverente