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

The Lost Boys gave us the chance to create something that feels reverent toward the film while still staking its own claim. — Shivani Vora, Forbes.com, 28 July 2026

The wedding processional began with the majestic, resonant tones of the historic church organ, setting a reverent and grand atmosphere. — Ashlyn Robinette, PEOPLE, 23 July 2026

This contemporary-chic new venture counts Chalee Kader (whose Wana Yook restaurant has one Michelin star) among its owners and serves hearty Thai dishes, both reverent and reinterpreted, amid abstract paintings and an electro-rock soundtrack. — The New York Times News Service Syndicate, San Diego Union-Tribune, 19 July 2026

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