What does revering mean?
Revering means displaying deep respect, admiration, or devotion. It describes someone who looks upon a person, place, object, or ideal with a mixture of esteem and awe. The word is often used in formal or literary contexts, such as a revering audience, a revering attitude, or a revering tone of voice. It differs from reverent, which more commonly characterizes respectful behavior or manner: a revering fan expresses admiration, while a reverent visitor behaves respectfully. Revering can also describe devotion that is not connected with religion, although it can suggest a profound, almost worshipful regard. In everyday conversation, admiring may sound less intense and is often the more natural choice. The word is the present participle of revere, meaning to regard with deep respect or admiration.
adjectiveShowing deep respect or admiration for someone or something. The word describes an attitude of reverence or affection.
- Showing deep respect, admiration, or devotion toward a person, place, object, or ideal.
"The young musician remained revering toward her renowned teacher throughout the ceremony."
"He spoke in a revering tone about the scientists who had shaped his career."
"The crowd remained revering and silent as the old monument was unveiled."
A person can be revering without being religious: the strongest part of revering is the feeling of awe and esteem directed toward someone or something.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does revering come from?
The word comes from the Latin verb reverēre, meaning “to respect,” “to revere,” or “to stand in awe of.” It developed through Old French into English in the 16th century. English words such as revere, reverence, reverent, and reverend share this Latin root, reflecting the language's longstanding vocabulary of respect and devotion.
Related word forms
How revering is actually used
Revering is somewhat literary and elevated in register. It is commonly used of a person's attitude toward a person, object, place, or ideal, and can suggest awe or affectionate admiration.
Easily confused with revering
Revering describes a person who expresses deep admiration, while reverent describes conduct or an attitude marked by respect.
Revering can indicate intense admiration or devotion, whereas religious primarily relates to religious belief, practice, or organization.