deferential
|def/er/en/tial|
C1
/ˌdɛfəˈrɛnʃəl/
showing respect
Etymology
Etymology Information
'deferential' originates from the Latin word 'deferre,' where 'de-' meant 'away' and 'ferre' meant 'to carry.'
Historical Evolution
'deferre' transformed into the French word 'déférent,' and eventually became the modern English word 'deferential' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to carry away or yield,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'showing respect or courteous regard.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
showing respect or courteous regard for someone else's opinion or wishes.
He was always deferential to his elders.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41