reverent

adjective

rev·​er·​ent ˈrev-rənt 

ˈre-və-;

ˈre-vərnt

: expressing or characterized by reverence : worshipful

reverently adverb

Examples of reverent in a Sentence

a reverent crowd of worshippers

a reverent tone of voice

Recent Examples on the Web

His live version from Live at Sin-e is a reverent prayer, as spiritual, sensual and truthful as any song will ever hear. —Steve Baltin, Forbes, 23 Jan. 2025

Lying underneath a reverent mural of George Washington, Carter’s casket was surrounded by a silent crowd of mourners and military guards. —Christopher Cann, USA TODAY, 9 Jan. 2025

Linda laments, Sonny amplifies and witnesses her in a reverent tone, a slanted echo, and Milford Graves on drums keeps their pulse and helps shake the tensions loose. —Giovanni Russonello, New York Times, 8 Jan. 2025

Besides reverent versions of some of Jim Croce songs, intriguing new interpretations of others and covers that help explore some inspirations and influences, A.J. Croce talks about his father between songs. —Christopher Arnott, Hartford Courant, 5 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, borrowed from Anglo-French, borrowed from Latin reverent-, reverens, present participle of reverērī "to stand in awe of, revere entry 1"

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

reverent

adjective

rev·​er·​ent ˈrev-(ə-)rənt 

ˈrev-ərnt

: very respectful : showing reverence

reverently adverb