I. ˈrevərn(t)s also -v(ə)rən- noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English, from Old French, from Latin reverentia, from reverent-, reverens (present participle of reverērī to revere) + -ia -y — more at revere
1.
a. : honor or respect felt or manifested : deference duly paid or expressed
a seemly reverence may be paid to power — William Wordsworth
b. : profound respect mingled with love and awe (as for a holy or exalted being or place or thing)
pray with reverence
— often used with in
a child reared in reverence of his parents
2.
a. : a gesture of respect (as an obeisance, bow, or curtsy)
made a slight reverence in passing
b. : a deep bow performed in a court dance or ballet
3.
a. : the character or state of being revered or honored : exalted position
remembering the reverence of the place in which he stood
attained great reverence among the citizens
b. : something held in reverence : an object of honor and respect
one's private reverences
4. : clergyman — used as a respectful form of address (as in the phrases his Reverence, saving your reverence )
Synonyms: see honor
II. transitive verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
Etymology: Middle English, from reverence, n.
: to regard or treat with reverence, respect, honor, or veneration : show reverence to or respect for : esteem highly
reverence the gods
those who reverence the laws of their country
truly reverenced honest effort
Synonyms: see revere