Venerate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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venerate

[หˆvษ›nษ™หŒreษชt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

religious worship

To venerate someone or something means to regard them with great respect and reverence, especially in a religious context. It involves showing deep admiration and honor towards the object of veneration.

Synonyms

admire, revere, worship.

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Word Description / Examples
venerate

This word is often used to express a deep respect, often in a formal or religious context, where someone is greatly honored for their wisdom, age, or virtue.

  • People across generations venerate the wise elder for her contributions to the community.
  • Many venerate saints as paragons of virtue and faith.
revere

Use this word when expressing deep respect and awe, similar to venerate, but it often conveys a sense of profound honor more suitable for individuals who have achieved something significant or possess laudable qualities.

  • Students revere their professor for his extensive knowledge and guidance.
  • The community reveres the firefighter who risked his life to save others.
worship

Typically used in religious contexts where it signifies an act of showing reverence and adoration for a deity. It can also be used metaphorically but often has a strong connotation of intense devotion.

  • Every Sunday, they gather at the temple to worship.
  • Some people practically worship celebrities, following every detail of their lives.
admire

This word is used in a variety of settings to show a feeling of respect and approval, usually coupled with a sense of pleasure or delight. It can describe feelings towards people, objects, or qualities.

  • I greatly admire her dedication to her work.
  • Many people admire the beauty of the sunset.

Examples of usage

  • The followers venerate the sacred relic.
  • She venerated the memory of her ancestors.
  • He is venerated as a saint in this community.
Context #2 | Verb

great admiration

To venerate can also mean to deeply admire someone or something. It implies a high level of respect and esteem towards the person or object being venerated.

Synonyms

admire, esteem, respect.

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Word Description / Examples
venerate

Use 'venerate' when you hold someone or something in the highest regard, often with a sense of reverence or awe. This word is typically used in more formal or religious contexts.

  • The villagers venerated the ancient tree, believing it to be sacred.
  • Many cultures venerate their ancestors and honor their memory with rituals.
admire

Use 'admire' when you have a feeling of great respect or approval for someone or something, often because of their qualities or achievements. It is typically used in everyday situations.

  • I really admire her dedication to her career.
  • He stood back to admire the beautiful painting.
respect

Use 'respect' to show regard or consideration for someone or something, recognizing their worth or value. It can be used in a variety of settings, both formal and informal.

  • She respects her parents' advice even when she doesn't agree with it.
  • Respect for others is a fundamental value in any healthy relationship.
esteem

Use 'esteem' to express a high level of respect or admiration, often when talking about someone's abilities, qualities, or achievements. This word is more formal than 'admire' but less intense than 'venerate'.

  • She is highly esteemed by her colleagues for her expertise.
  • The community held the doctor in great esteem.

Examples of usage

  • She venerated her mentor for his wisdom.
  • The artist is venerated for his contributions to the art world.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Practices

  • Many religions practice veneration, with rituals in Buddhism where followers honor images of the Buddha as a symbol of enlightenment.
  • In some cultures, ancestors are venerated, showing respect to those who have passed away and acknowledging their impact on the family's history.
  • Hinduism includes the veneration of deities through puja, a ritual of worship that incorporates offerings and prayers.

Literature

  • In literature, characters often venerate heroes or mentors, showcasing the human admiration for wisdom, bravery, and guidance.
  • Classic works, such as Homerโ€™s 'The Iliad,' demonstrate the veneration of gods and heroes, reflecting the values of the time.
  • Modern poetry frequently explores themes of veneration, expressing deep emotional connections to people, beliefs, or ideals.

Psychology

  • Research shows that veneration can strengthen community bonds, as shared respect for leaders or ideologies fosters unity.
  • Cognitive studies suggest that people often admire those who have overcome challenges, indicating a psychological tendency to venerate resilience.
  • The human brain is wired to respond to figures of authority or wisdom with reverence, which can enhance learning and inspiration.

Origin of 'venerate'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'venerari,' meaning 'to worship' or 'to regard with reverence.'
  • The root 'vener-' is also found in words like 'venereal,' relating to love or sexual desire, showing a connection to affection.
  • It has been in use in the English language since the late 14th century, highlighting its long-standing presence in expressing respect.

The word 'venerate' originated from the Latin word 'veneratus', which means 'venerated' or 'honored'. It has been used in the English language since the 17th century. The concept of venerating or showing respect and reverence has been an integral part of various cultures and religions throughout history.


Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,184, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.