deference meaning
UK US /ˈdɛfərəns/ 3 syllables
deference (noun): a courteous expression (by word or deed) of esteem or regard.
deference has 3 meanings in this dictionary.
deference as a noun
- a courteous expression (by word or deed) of esteem or regard
- his deference to her wishes was very flattering
- be sure to give my respects to the dean
Synonyms: respect
Type of: politeness
Kinds: court, last respects, props
Related forms: deferential, deferent
- courteous regard for people's feelings
- in deference to your wishes
- out of respect for his privacy
Synonyms: respect, respectfulness
Type of: courtesy
Related forms: deferential, deferent, defer
- a disposition or tendency to yield to the will of others
Synonyms: complaisance, compliance, compliancy, obligingness
Type of: agreeableness
Related forms: deferential, deferent
How to pronounce deference
deference is pronounced /ˈdɛfərəns/ in American English. It has 3 syllables, with the stress on the first syllable.
Words that rhyme with deference
Scrabble score: 15 (letter breakdown)
Word lists: words starting with DE · words ending in CE · 9-letter words
More about deference on Wikipedia.