reverential

[rev-uh-ren-shuhl]

adjective

1. of the nature of or characterized by reverence; reverent.

   reverential awe.

reverential

/ ˌrɛvəˈrɛnʃəl /

adjective

1. resulting from or showing reverence

   a pilgrimage is a reverential act, performed by reverent people

Other Word Forms

• reverentiality noun
• reverentialness noun
• reverentially adverb
• nonreverential adjective
• nonreverentially adverb
• unreverential adjective
• unreverentially adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of reverential¹

First recorded in 1545–55; reverent + -ial

Example Sentences

“I’m creating my own vision of the artist’s unfinished masterpiece, torn between a feeling of reverential awe and profound admiration,” he told Wallpaper.

From Los Angeles Times

I think there's a reverential approach that is just as, if not more, valuable.

From Salon

It’s as if he’s claiming nature’s untrampled territory with his reverential gaze — a distinctly political act for a colonizer.

From Los Angeles Times

The most famous trial lawyer of his time, Clarence Darrow inspired reverential biographies, stage plays and performances from some of the 20th century’s greatest actors.

From Los Angeles Times

We listened in rapt, reverential awe, cozied by Vienna’s velvet strings, velvet winds and velvet brass woven together in a perfect tapestry of lush sonic textures and instrumental colors.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• admiring 
• deferential 
• polite 
• solemn 
• worshipful