deferential
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.
Berkshire’s 13-member board of directors—including two of Buffett’s three children—has long been deferential to Buffett and could use stronger independent members now that Buffett is no longer CEO.
From Barron's • Apr. 24, 2026
Until the 1960s, most broadcasting was dry and deferential.
From BBC • Mar. 7, 2026
She’s very deferential to him, clearly aiming for this goal of “OK, and I’ll take over.”
From Slate • Jan. 5, 2026
Ellison wanted to keep Sheridan in the fold but felt the previous regime was too deferential, a person familiar with his thinking said.
From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 28, 2025
The deferential tone heightened the content of his announcement.
From "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings" by Maya Angelou
Vocabulary lists containing deferential
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