Main Entry:

def·er·ence

Pronunciation:

\ˈde-fə-rən(t)s, ˈdef-rən(t)s\

Function:

noun

Date:

1660

: respect and esteem due a superior or an elder ; also : affected or ingratiating regard for another's wishes

synonyms see honor

— in deference to

: in consideration of <returned early in deference to her parents' wishes>