irreverent
irreverent Lexical Profile
irreverent Game Scores & Validity
• adjective
Showing a lack of respect for people, institutions, or traditions that are generally taken seriously, often in a playful, satirical, or witty manner.
"The comedian is known for her irreverent humor that pokes fun at political norms and high society."
Lacking proper veneration or devotion toward God, sacred objects, or religious practices.
"Whispering jokes during the solemn service was considered deeply irreverent by the congregation."
Word Nuance & Usage
Do not confuse 'irreverent' (showing a lack of respect for serious things, often in a witty or playful way) with 'irrelevant' (unconnected or beside the point).
• Rhymes for irreverent
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the late 14th century from Old French or directly from Latin irreverentem, formed from the privative prefix in- (assimilated to ir-) and reverens ('standing in awe of'), the present participle of revereri ('to respect or fear').