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Definition of deferential

deferential

/ˌdɛf.əˈrɛn.ʃəl/
def · er · en · tial
Adverb:deferentially
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deferential Lexical Profile

deferential Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Showing polite respect, courtesy, and humble submission to the judgment, authority, or superior status of another person.

Example

"The junior associates remained deferential toward the senior partner throughout the boardroom negotiations."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for deferential
Antonyms
View all antonyms for deferential

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'deferential' (showing polite respect and yielding to another's authority) with 'differential' (relating to or showing a difference).

• Rhymes for deferential

• Nearby Words

defer
deferable
deference
deferential
deferment
deferrable
deferral

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the early 19th century from 'deference', which comes via French from the Latin verb 'deferre', meaning 'to carry down' or 'to submit to another's judgment'.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Deferential. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/deferential
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