Very Reverend

American  

adjective

1. the official form of address for officers of the clergy or religious orders below the rank of bishop, abbot, or abbess.

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Very Reverend British  

noun

1. a title of respect for a variety of ecclesiastical officials, such as deans and the superiors of some religious houses

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Example Sentences

And the Honours of Scotland will be presented to the King by the Very Reverend Prof David Fergusson, Dean of the Chapel Royal and Dean of the Order of the Thistle.

From BBC • Jul. 4, 2023

It was bought in the same year by the Very Reverend Eric Milner-White, Dean of York, who donated it to the Fitzwilliam Museum, where it is currently in storage.

From BBC • Mar. 29, 2023

The Very Reverend Canon Janet Chapman said it was part of an exhibition of Nativity scenes from throughout the world.

From BBC • Nov. 27, 2022

The Very Reverend Matthew Habron, dean of the cathedral, is clear why the crowds have come, describing it as an "historic and unique occasion".

From BBC • Oct. 5, 2022

D. K. When Deans first styled Very Reverend.—Can any of your correspondents state at what period Deans of Cathedrals were first designated as "Very Reverend?"

From Notes and Queries, Number 79, May 3, 1851 A Medium of Inter-communication for Literary Men, Artists, Antiquaries, Genealogists, etc by Bell, George