Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Definitions

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.

He said such arrangements should no longer be sustainable and that "deference is wearing thin indeed".

From BBC • Jun. 4, 2026

In practice, the Fed sets rates by committee vote, not by automatic deference to the chair.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 22, 2026

"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

“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

Even though he had removed himself from domestic matters, everyone still paid him enormous deference.

From "The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate" by Jacqueline Kelly




Vocabulary lists containing deference


Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Look it up. Learn it forever.

Remember "deference" for good with VocabTrainer. Expand your vocabulary effortlessly with personalized learning tools that adapt to your goals.

Take me to Vocabulary.com