Déférence (en. Deference)

/de.fe.ʁɑ̃s/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench
noun
Respect shown to someone due to their status or qualities.
He spoke with deference to his teacher.
Il parlait avec déférence à son professeur.
A feeling of esteem and obligation towards authority or tradition.
Deference towards elders is an important value in this culture.
La déférence envers les aînés est une valeur importante dans cette culture.
An attitude of respect and consideration.
She has always acted with deference towards her superiors.
Elle a toujours agi avec déférence envers ses supérieurs.

Etymology

Comes from the Latin 'deferentia', derived from 'deferre' which means 'to carry towards'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

to have deference
To show respect towards someone.
avoir de la déférence
to act with deference
To behave with respect and consideration.
agir avec déférence

Related Words

deferential
Showing deference.
déférent
respect
Consideration for someone's value or merit.
respect
esteem
A feeling of respect and admiration for someone.
estime

Slang Meanings

Excessive respect often perceived as submission.
He speaks to her with a deference that borders on adulation.
Il lui parle avec une déférence qui frôle l'adulation.