American English pronunciation

How to pronounce deference

IPA transcription: ['dɛfɚəns]

Pronunciation variants: ['dɛfɚəns]['dɛfɹəns]

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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”

  • a disposition or tendency to yield to the will of others

  • courteous regard for people's feelings

    “in deference to your wishes”

    “out of respect for his privacy”

Usage examples

  • Conflicting signals are resolved by deference to the information gathered by the eyes.
  • The spouse of a Torah scholar must also be shown deference.
  • This is done as a sign of respect or deference.
  • The council granted remarkable position and deference to the king of the Visigoths.