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

Breakfast included, indoor fireplace, backyard, desert views Found on Navajo land in Arizona, Shash Dine’ draws visitors thanks to its stargazing opportunities, as well as its reverent efforts to keep indigenous culture and tradition alive. —Erika Owen, Architectural Digest, 29 Apr. 2026

In the sumptuousness of the bibliophile’s parlor, studying Black history occasioned reverent, joyous gatherings. —Laura E. Helton, Literary Hub, 20 Apr. 2026

Newman often seems to be reciting his lyrics, even incanting them, reverent and repetitive. —Elizabeth Nelson, Pitchfork, 8 Apr. 2026

Nakamura, who works almost exclusively in his native Japan, smooths over those divisions, creating reverent, porous structures that open to the landscape or curl in on themselves in repose. —Justin Davidson, Curbed, 1 Apr. 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