What does venerables mean?
“Venerables” is the plural noun form of “venerable” when venerable is used to mean a person deserving deep respect. It usually refers to elderly or long-established people, although it can apply more broadly to respected figures in a family, profession, institution, or church. The word is formal and respectful: it conveys not merely advanced age or seniority, but the belief that someone has earned esteem through character, service, achievement, or enduring connection with a community. For that reason, “venerables” is often used collectively, as in “the organization's venerables,” rather than to label a single person. In religious contexts, it may also denote saints or revered predecessors. Because the term carries an explicit value judgment, it is more suitable in ceremonial, commemorative, or institutional writing than in casual conversation. Its unusual plural ending gives it a particularly traditional and dignified quality.
noun (plural)People who are deeply respected or revered, especially because of their age, character, achievements, or long association with an institution or community.
- People held in deep respect or reverence, especially elderly people, distinguished figures, or long-standing members of an institution or community.
"All the club's venerables turned out to welcome the newest member."
"All the club's venerables turned out to welcome the newest member."
"Many of the congregation's venerables had known the minister for decades."
The standard plural of the noun venerable, used for people deserving respect or reverence.
"The society's venerables were invited to meet the visiting scholars."
“Venerables” does not merely mean elders: it recognizes people whose character, service, or legacy has earned lasting esteem.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of venerables
Venerables is the plural of venerable. English venerable was borrowed through Old French from Late Latin venerabilis, meaning “worthy of reverence.” That Latin adjective was formed from venerari, “to worship or honor,” which also underlies English words such as venerate and veneration.
Related word forms
How venerables is actually used
This is a formal and honorific term. It is often used collectively and may refer to revered predecessors or, in religious contexts, saints.