reverent

[ rev-er-uhnt, rev-ruhnt ]

adjective

1. feeling, exhibiting, or characterized by reverence; deeply respectful:

   a reverent greeting.

reverent

/ ˈrɛvərənt; ˈrɛvrənt /

adjective

1. feeling, expressing, or characterized by reverence

Derived Forms

• ˈreverently, adverb
• ˈreverentness, noun

Other Words From

• rev·er·ent·ly adverb
• rev·er·ent·ness noun
• non·rev·er·ent adjective
• self-rev·er·ent adjective
• un·rev·er·ent adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of reverent¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English from Latin reverent- (stem of reverēns ), present participle of reverērī “to fear, have reverence”; revere ¹, -ent

Word History and Origins

Origin of reverent¹

C14: from Latin reverēns respectful

Example Sentences

You ever find that your audience is too reverent?

From Los Angeles Times

Whenever Lal met with Lawson in L.A., he too never failed to speak of Gandhi in reverent tones, even though his admiration was already well established by then.

From Los Angeles Times

And sometimes the changes come like a whirlwind, dividing parishes between those thirsting for a more reverent Catholicism and those who feel their spiritual home has been taken from them.

From Seattle Times

Mr. Trump’s tone turns reverent and somber, prompting some supporters to bow their heads or close their eyes.

From Salon

If you want to take in the moment in reverent silence, though, I fully support that; this playlist will be here when the eclipse is over, if you want to extend the astronomical vibe.

From New York Times

Related Words

• appreciative
• deferential
• gracious
• polite
• reverential
• solemn