deferential
[def-uh-ren-shuh l]
Origin of deferential
Synonyms
See more synonyms for deferential on Thesaurus.comcourteous, regardful, dutiful, obedient, reverential.
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018
Examples from the Web for deferential
Contemporary Examples
Colbert was properly, perhaps pitifully, deferential to Letterman.
Now is not the time for lackadaisical, quiet and deferential diplomacy.
Female subordinates are often less respectful of, and deferential to, their female bosses than they are to their male bosses.
Chris was brilliant, deferential, even demure, full of conviction.
A Friend’s Tribute to Ambassador Chris Stevens: The Diplomatic Indiana JonesRoya Hakakian
September 13, 2012
At speechwriting meetings, Michel was deferential but quick with answers, just as the president liked.
Historical Examples
She beamed at my appearance, and her every word was caressing and deferential.
The Bacillus of BeautyHarriet Stark
I saw it in every deferential gesture of his body, and every modulated tone of his voice.
The UnderdogF. Hopkinson Smith
The Chief Inspector stood it well, deferential but inscrutable.
The Secret AgentJoseph Conrad
With a deferential flourish the waiter brought him the menu-card.
The Black BagLouis Joseph Vance
Like lightning Ferry's sword was out, but he only gave it a deferential sweep.
The CavalierGeorge Washington Cable
deferential
- marked by or showing deference or respect; respectful
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Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
Word Origin and History for deferential
Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper
deferential
(dĕf′ə-rĕn′shəl)- Of or relating to the vas deferens.
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The American Heritage® Stedman's Medical Dictionary
Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company.