I. ˈrevərnd also -v(ə)rən- adjective
( sometimes -er/-est )
Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French, from Latin reverendus, gerundive of reverērī to revere
1. : worthy of reverence : entitled to respect or honor (as on account of age or position) : inspiring reverence : revered
these reverend halls
my reverend father
— often used in respectful address
you may trust my aim, reverend sir
2. obsolete : sacred , holy
3. : reverent
experienced a reverend awe at the sight
4.
a. : of, relating to, or characteristic of the clergy
b. usually capitalized : belonging to the clergy : being a clergyman — used in a form of address usually preceded by the, followed by a title or a full name, and sometimes qualified by an honorific
the Reverend Dr. Doe
— abbr. Rev.
Rev. John Doe
— compare most reverend , right reverend , very reverend
5. chiefly Midland : strong , potent , undiluted
a reverend whiskey
II. noun
( -s )
: a member of the clergy : minister , priest , pastor
churches don't hire reverends, they hire families — Monte Linkletter
saw the reverend walking down the road
good morning, Reverend