irreverence

noun

ir·​rev·​er·​ence i-ˈre-v(ə-)rən(t)s 

ˌi(r)-, 

-ˈre-vərn(t)s

1

: lack of reverence

2

: an irreverent act or utterance

Synonyms of irreverence

• blasphemy
• sacrilege
• violation
• desecration
• impiety
• cursing
• corruption
• insult
• profanation

Examples of irreverence in a Sentence

the sect has no tolerance for any irreverence directed toward their spiritual leader

Recent Examples on the Web

Philly Mag ran a definitive long-read that leaned into the show's Philadelphia roots and comedic irreverence. — Olivia Shalhoup, Forbes.com, 4 June 2026

Its gonzo spirit, racial irreverence, and formal invention reminded me of Riley. — Brittany Allen, Literary Hub, 2 June 2026

Viewed from the present, these young athlete-patriots seem to possess a quintessentially American mix of pride, irreverence, and subversion. — Sally Jenkins, The Atlantic, 11 June 2026

There’s loneliness, pain and self-destruction in her binge drinking, humor that comes in her wild and free dancing, and irreverence in hanging with her beloved super-pup Krypto. — Brian Truitt, USA Today, 25 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for irreverence

• reverence
• severance