Synonym Chooser

How does the noun deference differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of deference are homage, honor, and reverence. While all these words mean "respect and esteem shown to another," deference implies a yielding or submitting to another's judgment or preference out of respect or reverence.

showed no deference to their elders

In what contexts can homage take the place of deference?

The words homage and deference can be used in similar contexts, but homage adds the implication of accompanying praise.

paying homage to Shakespeare

When is honor a more appropriate choice than deference?

The words honor and deference are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, honor may apply to the recognition of one's right to great respect or to any expression of such recognition.

the nomination is an honor

When might reverence be a better fit than deference?

The synonyms reverence and deference are sometimes interchangeable, but reverence implies profound respect mingled with love, devotion, or awe.

great reverence for my father

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of deference The committee also showed too much deference to SMU, the ACC runner-up. Blake Toppmeyer, USA TODAY, 21 Aug. 2025 Despite its constant deference to Trump, Congress has the obligation to initiate a comprehensive review of the impact of this executive order and reassert its constitutional right to ensure a regulatory structure that protects the interests of all investors. Dp Opinion, Denver Post, 19 Aug. 2025 The higher court unanimously ruled that the CPUC was granted unfair deference, and that all parties should be treated equally when adjudicating a dispute. Harvey Levine, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 Aug. 2025 In so many ways, communities were less safe and less healthy because of past city planners’ deference to cars. Ariane Lange, Sacbee.com, 11 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for deference
Recent Examples of Synonyms for deference
Noun
  • Even if your furry friend has already mastered the obedience basics, try adding some new party tricks to their command repertoire.
    Kelsey Monstrola, USA Today, 5 Sep. 2025
  • Malik wants protection – Massoud wants obedience.
    Marta Balaga, Variety, 29 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • This lack of callout could be construed as a form of acquiescence that the delusion is apt.
    Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 13 Aug. 2025
  • In March, with Trump’s more or less full acquiescence, Netanyahu ended a ceasefire with Hamas that the U.S. had brokered in January.
    Susan B. Glasser, New Yorker, 31 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Deference.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/deference. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on deference

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