What does reverential mean?
Reverential describes conduct, language, or attitudes marked by solemn and deeply felt respect. The word is especially associated with worship, religious objects, sacred traditions, and people or things held in profound esteem. It suggests more than ordinary politeness: a reverential voice may become quiet, a reverential visitor may treat a historic site with exceptional care, and a reverential account of a spiritual figure may convey awe or devotion. In broader use, the adjective can describe intense respect for something valued for its importance, artistic merit, or historical significance. While reverent is the more familiar everyday term, reverential often has a more ceremonial, elevated, or formal tone, making it useful in literary, religious, historical, and cultural contexts.
adjectiveShowing or characterized by reverence, especially toward something regarded as sacred, holy, or worthy of deep respect.
- Showing deep, solemn respect, especially toward a sacred object, divine being, or revered person.
- Expressing or characterized by such respect in manner, language, or treatment.
"The visitors maintained a reverential silence as they entered the ancient sanctuary."
"Her reverential approach to the sacred text shaped the way she interpreted it."
"The statue was treated with reverential care by the museum's conservators."
Some voices lower themselves, not only in volume but in authority: that is the quiet power of the reverential.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does reverential come from?
Reverential derives from Latin reverentialis, meaning “reverent” or “respectful,” which was formed from reverentia, “reverence.” The underlying Latin root reverēri means “to stand in awe of” or “to respect greatly.” English borrowed the family in the 16th and 17th centuries, including reverence, reverend, and reverent, before developing reverential as a more specific adjective for solemn or deeply respectful attitudes.
Related word forms
How reverential is actually used
Reverential is usually formal and often carries a strong sense of solemnity or devotion. It can describe behavior toward religious objects or people, but also, more broadly, respect for something deeply valued. It is more common in writing than in everyday speech.
Easily confused with reverential
Both describe deep respect, but reverent is the more common word for an attitude or manner, while reverential often emphasizes solemn respect toward something sacred or highly valued.