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Definitions

deferential

[def-uh-ren-shuhl] / ˌdɛf əˈrɛn ʃəl /


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 justices are appointed by the Assembly, and are traditionally quite deferential to it.

From Slate • Apr. 24, 2026

Berkshire’s 13-member board of directors—including two of Buffett’s three children—has long been deferential to Buffett and could use stronger independent members now that Buffett is no longer CEO.

From Barron's • Apr. 24, 2026

Until the 1960s, most broadcasting was dry and deferential.

From BBC • Mar. 7, 2026

As the decades spooled past, British society would become less deferential and British media more intrusive.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 4, 2026

The southerners, by contrast, were downright deferential in normal circumstances, stepping aside with more than nine feet to go.

From "Outliers" by Malcolm Gladwell




Vocabulary lists containing deferential