Reverential: meaning, definitions and examples

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reverential

 

[ ˌrɛvəˈrɛnʃ(ə)l ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

in a religious context

feeling or showing deep and solemn respect

Synonyms

devout, respectful, worshipful.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
reverential

Used to describe feelings, attitudes, or behaviors that show deep respect, typically in a spiritual or solemn context.

  • The audience listened in reverential silence as the speaker shared his profound wisdom
  • Her voice carried a reverential tone when she spoke about her mentor
respectful

Applied when showing consideration or honor towards someone or something, often in a general or everyday setting.

  • Be respectful when addressing your elders
  • Their conversation was cordial and respectful, despite their opposing views
worshipful

Typically used to denote intense or adoring respect, often in the context of religious worship or admiration.

  • The worshipful congregation knelt in prayer
  • His tone was almost worshipful when he spoke about his hero
devout

Often used to describe a person who is extremely dedicated to their religious beliefs or practices.

  • He is a devout Christian who never misses a Sunday service
  • The devout followers gathered at the temple for the special ceremony

Examples of usage

  • The reverential attitude of the monks towards the sacred relics
  • The ceremony was conducted with reverential silence and solemnity
Context #2 | Adjective

in a non-religious context

feeling or showing deep respect and admiration

Synonyms

admiring, adoring, venerating.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
reverential

Used when showing deep respect and awe, often in a religious or highly formal context.

  • The congregation listened in reverential silence during the ceremony.
  • There was a reverential tone in his voice when he spoke about his mentor.
admiring

Typically used to express warm approval and appreciation, often in everyday situations.

  • She gave him an admiring glance after he completed the project.
  • His admiring fans gathered around him for autographs.
adoring

Implies a deep love and affection, often used in personal and emotional contexts.

  • The parents looked at their newborn with adoring eyes.
  • Her adoring fans cheered loudly as she took the stage.
venerating

Used for showing great respect, often as part of ritualistic or ceremonial practices, typically in religious or very formal settings.

  • The monks were venerating their spiritual leader with chants and offerings.
  • Throughout history, many cultures have had traditions of venerating their ancestors.

Examples of usage

  • The artist gazed at the painting with reverential awe
  • The team members spoke about their coach in reverential tones

Translations

Translations of the word "reverential" in other languages:

🇵🇹 reverencial

🇮🇳 आदरपूर्ण

🇩🇪 ehrfürchtig

🇮🇩 penuh hormat

🇺🇦 шанобливий

🇵🇱 pełen czci

🇯🇵 敬虔な (けいけんな)

🇫🇷 révérencieux

🇪🇸 reverente

🇹🇷 saygılı

🇰🇷 경건한

🇸🇦 توقيري

🇨🇿 uctivý

🇸🇰 úctivý

🇨🇳 虔诚的 (qiánchéng de)

🇸🇮 spoštljiv

🇮🇸 virðingarfylltur

🇰🇿 құрметті

🇬🇪 პატივისცემული

🇦🇿 hörmətli

🇲🇽 reverente

Etymology

The word 'reverential' has its origins in the Latin word 'reverentia', which means 'reverence' or 'respect'. The term has been used in English since the 17th century to describe feelings or behaviors that show deep respect or admiration. Over the years, 'reverential' has been commonly used in religious and non-religious contexts to convey a sense of solemnity, admiration, and respect.

See also: irreverence.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,250, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.