reverential

Meanings

1. 1
   adj

   showing or characterized by deep respect, admiration, or awe

   The curator spoke in a reverential tone while handling the ancient manuscript.

From Medieval Latin reverentialis, based on Latin reverentia, 'awe, respect,' from revereri, 'stand in awe of, revere,' plus the adjectival suffix -al. Revereri combines re- as an intensifier with vereri, 'fear or feel awe,' explaining the word's blend of profound respect and solemn feeling.

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