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 deferent The Ptolemaic model depicted planets moving around Earth in a big circle, known as a deferent, then going around a smaller circle while retrograding, called an epicycle. Carlie Procell, USA TODAY, 25 Nov. 2024 The Ptolemaic model depicted planets moving around Earth in a big circle, known as a deferent, then going around a smaller circle while retrograding, called an epicycle. Carlie Procell, USA Today, 19 Apr. 2023 Curiously, the Biden administration sees it this way, too, but still takes a stance deferent to Chancellor Angela Merkel’s fierce advocacy for it and opposition to U.S. sanctions that would target European companies and individuals involved in its construction. Jimmy Quinn, National Review, 20 July 2021 The men were expected to be compliant, deferent to the CEO, resilient and tough. Kirsten Garbini, Forbes, 2 Mar. 2021
Recent Examples of Synonyms for deferent
respectful
Adjective
  • But officially, the Sox are playing it cool and trying to be respectful.
    Jon Greenberg, New York Times, 14 May 2025
  • Though Ancelotti didn’t pick Rivaldo often during their time at AC Milan together in the early 2000s, the ex-forward has always been publicly respectful of the Champions League’s most successful coach while stressing there is no bad blood between them.
    Tom Sanderson, Forbes.com, 13 May 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Deferent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/deferent. Accessed 24 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on deferent

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!