deference
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The hapless man, Mr. de la Bédoyère writes, “sat by, unable or perhaps unwilling by virtue of his status and deference to do anything about the degrading spectacle.”
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 5, 2026
He said such arrangements should no longer be sustainable and that "deference is wearing thin indeed".
From BBC • Jun. 4, 2026
"The handshake evolved very slowly as a mode of greeting and had no bearing on hat-honor as a gesture of deference," he says.
From Science Daily • May 7, 2026
The piece argues that Pratt showed sufficient composure and charm while displaying deference to moderators and occasionally yielding speaking time to Bass, though the article notes he occasionally lapsed into mockery and made unsubstantiated characterizations.
From Los Angeles Times • May 6, 2026
Chup walked toward her, lowering his head in deference to the greater size and power of the female peregrine.
From "Frightful's Mountain" by Jean Craighead George
Vocabulary lists containing deference
The Vocabulary.com Top 1000
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ASVAB Word Knowledge
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The SAT: Words to Capture Tone, List 4
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