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>