WordGarden.ioreverentially
B2Pronunciation
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Meanings
Adverb
with deep respect or admiration
in a worshipful or devotional way
Beyond the definition
Imagine walking into an ancient cathedral where sunlight falls through stained glass and the air feels heavy with history. You would naturally speak reverentially, lowering your voice and moving carefully out of respect for the sacred space. To act reverentially is to show deep honor and admiration. It is the outward sign that you feel you are in the presence of something truly special or very important. It goes beyond simple politeness; it shows a deep respect that shapes your words and actions. Whether you are approaching a beloved elder or handling a priceless heirloom, acting reverentially shows that you understand the great value of what is before you.
To act reverentially is to behave in a way that shows deep respect, awe, and sometimes devotion. It is not just good manners. It is respect made visible in your actions, tone of voice, and body language. When someone acts reverentially, details such as a hushed tone or slow, careful movements show that they feel they are in the presence of something sacred, precious, or deeply admired.
The word is the adverb form of "reverence," which means deep respect often mixed with wonder. If you speak reverentially about a person, you choose your words with care and avoid sounding casual or dismissive. If you handle a fragile antique reverentially, your touch is light and protective, as if the object carries the weight of centuries.
Reverentially is most often used in contexts involving the sacred, the ancient, or anything held in very high regard. It can describe the way a student listens to a respected teacher, how a pilgrim enters a shrine, or how a curator handles an ancient scroll. It suggests a quiet, humble recognition of greatness, wisdom, beauty, or holiness. It can be used for people, places, objects, ideas, or traditions, but it always carries the sense of deep respect and awe.
Examples
- 1
Sacred place
The guide spoke reverentially about the old temple.
- 2
Family keepsake
He lifted his grandfather's medals reverentially from the box.
- 3
Film criticism
Even years later, critics still wrote reverentially of the director's early films.
See also
Similar
- reverently
- respectfully
- worshipfully
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- speak reverentially of
- refer reverentially to
- gaze reverentially at
Word family
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Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- reverentiallyadverb