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Veneration Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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veneration

[หŒvenษ™หˆreษชสƒ(ษ™)n ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

religious

Great respect or reverence shown to something considered sacred or holy, often in a religious context. It involves admiration and deep devotion towards a deity, religious figure, or sacred object.

Synonyms

adoration, reverence, worship.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
veneration

Used to describe deep respect or awe often shown towards someone who is elderly or greatly respected in a cultural or religious sense.

  • The students showed veneration towards the retired professor
  • The statue was a site of veneration for many pilgrims
reverence

Indicates deep respect for someone or something, often to a higher degree than 'respect,' and frequently used in religious or solemn contexts.

  • He spoke of his grandfather with great reverence
  • The congregation showed reverence during the prayer service
adoration

Usually expresses a warm, loving admiration typically directed towards a person, deity, or object. It often implies a sense of affectionate love and admiration.

  • She looked at her newborn baby with pure adoration
  • The fans' adoration for the musician was evident in their cheers
worship

Primarily used in a religious context to describe acts of praise, adoration, or devotion towards a deity or higher power. Can sometimes have a negative connotation when referring to extreme admiration for a person or thing.

  • They gathered at the temple for worship
  • The cult's worship of their leader raised many concerns

Examples of usage

  • The veneration of saints is an important aspect of Catholicism.
  • The veneration of the ancient relics is a tradition in many cultures.
Context #2 | Noun

general

Respect or awe shown towards someone or something, often due to their status, achievements, or qualities. It can also refer to the act of honoring or esteeming someone highly.

Synonyms

admiration, esteem, respect.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
veneration

Use this word when referring to a deep, almost reverential respect, often in a religious or spiritual context.

  • The monks exhibited veneration toward the sacred relics
respect

This word is used to show regard and consideration for someone or something because of their position, qualities, or achievements. Itโ€™s more general compared to its synonyms.

  • They showed respect for their elders and always listened to their advice
esteem

Employ this word to convey a high regard for someone based on their qualities, achievements, or stature. It can also refer to a self-assessment.

  • The esteemed professor received a standing ovation for his groundbreaking research
admiration

This word is suitable for expressing feelings of wonder and appreciation, often for someone's abilities or qualities.

  • She felt a great deal of admiration for her teacher's dedication to the students

Examples of usage

  • The veneration of the elders is a cultural norm in some societies.
  • She felt a sense of veneration towards the renowned scientist.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Religion and Spirituality

  • Many religions have concepts of veneration, where followers honor deities, saints, or sacred objects.
  • In Buddhism, bodhisattvas are objects of veneration, representing compassion and enlightenment for others.
  • Veneration differs from worship; itโ€™s more about respect, while worship implies a deeper, more intimate relationship.

Cultural Practices

  • In some cultures, ancestors are venerated, with rituals and ceremonies honoring their memory and influence.
  • Certain places and monuments are sites of veneration, attracting people to pay their respects, like shrines or memorials.
  • In many societies, holidays are dedicated to venerating figures from history, reflecting their importance in cultural identity.

Psychology

  • Veneration can foster community bonds, as shared respect for leaders or traditions brings people together.
  • People who feel veneration towards someone may be more likely to emulate their behaviors, seeing them as role models.
  • Studies suggest that feeling respected can lead to greater self-esteem and motivation among individuals.

Literature and Art

  • Veneration often appears in literature as themes of admiration, loyalty, and respect for influential figures.
  • Artworks depicting venerated individuals or scenes invite viewers to reflect on the significance of those subjects.
  • Classical works, like the writings of Homer, often highlight characters whose actions evoke veneration from others, exploring moral and ethical dilemmas.

Origin of 'veneration'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'veneratio', which means to respect or revere.
  • The root 'vener' is linked to 'Venus', the Roman goddess associated with love and beauty, suggesting a connection between admiration and affection.
  • The word has been used in English since the late 14th century, originally relating to reverence in a religious context.

The word 'veneration' has its roots in Latin 'venerari' which means 'to worship' or 'to adore'. It has been used in English since the late 14th century to denote the act of showing great respect or reverence. The concept of veneration has been prevalent in various religious and cultural practices throughout history, emphasizing the importance of honoring and revering sacred entities.

See also: venerable, venerated, venerating.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,004, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.