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

Not a hushed and reverent scene at all, lively and fun. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 12 June 2026

This is a lovely, if rather decorous and reverent, tale of an illicit affair that’s unlikely to cause as much noise as Dhont’s last two films. — Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 22 May 2026

Nonetheless, mathematicians remember him with reverent affection. — Konstantin Kakaes, Quanta Magazine, 20 May 2026

Unlike most disaster scenes, this is hushed and reverent, as one group of scientist-adventurers offers their profound respect and comfort to another, in silent vigil. — Sophie Brookover, Vulture, 8 May 2026

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

Rhymes for reverent

• irreverent

Kids Definition

reverent

adjective

rev·​er·​ent ˈrev-(ə-)rənt 

ˈrev-ərnt

: very respectful : showing reverence

reverently adverb