How Do You Spell DEFERENCE?

Pronunciation: [dˈɛfɹəns] (IPA)

The word "deference" is spelled as /ˈdɛfərəns/ in IPA phonetic transcription. It is a noun that means showing respect towards someone or something. The 'd' in the word is pronounced as a voiced dental consonant /d/. The 'e' in the first syllable is pronounced as a short mid-front vowel /ɛ/. The second syllable has a schwa /ə/ sound, which is the most common vowel sound in English. The 'r' is pronounced as a post-alveolar approximant /r/. The final syllable is pronounced as a nasal consonant /n/ followed by an unvoiced consonant /s/.

DEFERENCE Meaning and Definition

  1. Deference is a noun that refers to a respectful and humble submission or yielding to the opinion, wishes, or judgment of someone else, especially due to their seniority, authority, or expertise. It encompasses the act of showing deference and the attitude of respect or veneration that accompanies such behavior.

    Within social and hierarchical contexts, deference involves the act of yielding or giving way to others, often to those of higher status or authority. It implies recognizing and valuing their wisdom, experience, or position, and subsequently deferring to their decisions, recommendations, or preferences. It often manifests through polite gestures, courteous behavior, and compliant actions aimed at honoring or accommodating the wishes of others.

    Deference is closely associated with acknowledging and respecting the hierarchical or social structure within a community, organization, or society. It is frequently observed in traditional or formal settings, such as when individuals show deference to their superiors at work, religious leaders or elders in a community, or even to certain cultural norms and customs.

    While deference often implies a willingness to respectfully submit to another person's authority or opinion, it is important to note that it can also be based on trust, admiration, or recognition of expertise. Thus, deference can sometimes be bestowed upon individuals who possess exceptional talent, knowledge, or skills in a particular field.

    Overall, deference involves an attitude of genuine respect, honor, and willingness to yield to the judgment or wishes of others, be it due to their hierarchical position, accomplishments, or expertise.

  2. A yielding in opinion to another; regard; respect.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for DEFERENCE *

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Other Common Misspellings for DEFERENCE

Etymology of DEFERENCE

The word "deference" originated from the Latin word "deferentia", which means "respect" or "submission". It is derived from the verb "deferre", which combines "de" (down, away) and "ferre" (to carry). Therefore, the literal meaning of "deference" is to "carry, yield, or submit oneself down" to another person's judgment or authority.

Idioms with the word DEFERENCE

  • in deference to The idiom "in deference to" means to do something out of respect or consideration for someone or something else. It suggests that a particular action or decision is made in order to show respect, honor, or acknowledgement towards a person's or group's wishes, opinions, or authority.

Similar spelling words for DEFERENCE

Plural form of DEFERENCE is DEFERENCES

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