ˈdef(ə)rən(t)s also -fərn- noun
( -s )
Etymology: French déférence, from Middle French deference, from deferer to defer + -ence
: the act or attitude of deferring : a yielding of judgment or preference out of respect for the position, wish, or known opinion of another : courteous, complacent, or ingratiating regard for another's wishes
the conquered population should be treated with extreme deference — N.J.G.Pounds
Synonyms: see honor
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- in deference to