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deference

[def-er-uhns] / ˈdɛf ər əns /




Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"The handshake evolved very slowly as a mode of greeting and had no bearing on hat-honor as a gesture of deference," he says.

From Science Daily • May 7, 2026

The piece argues that Pratt showed sufficient composure and charm while displaying deference to moderators and occasionally yielding speaking time to Bass, though the article notes he occasionally lapsed into mockery and made unsubstantiated characterizations.

From Los Angeles Times • May 6, 2026

He theorises that inequality exists in a nation founded on pro-black, pan-African principles because a deference for whiteness was hard-wired into the region, long before independence.

From BBC • Apr. 24, 2026

“It seems like the board is basically saying, yes, we’re going to give deference to the administration whenever they want to kick somebody out,” López said.

From Slate • Apr. 23, 2026

I thought about putting Jockey shorts on them, in deference to Toronto, but decided against it.

From "Cat's Eye" by Margaret Atwood




Vocabulary lists containing deference


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