REVERENTIAL Synonyms: 46 Similar and Opposite Words

reverential

adjective

Definition of reverential

as in pious

formal showing or having a lot of respect a reverential attitude They spoke in reverential terms about their recently departed spiritual advisor.

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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 reverential The Followers have bent elbows and knees and prayerful cupped hands, and often move with little birdlike hops around the Preacher (Jai Perez), who presides with proud posture and reverential knee-hinges to the floor. — Jennifer Homans, New Yorker, 27 Apr. 2026 Penguins players lingered on the ice, hoping for a reverential handshake. — Sam Cohn, Baltimore Sun, 12 Apr. 2026 But Marshals the standalone spinoff takes a backseat to Marshals the reverential sequel. — Angie Han, HollywoodReporter, 27 Feb. 2026 The choice was pragmatic as much as reverential. — Andy Hazel, IndieWire, 16 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for reverential

Recent Examples of Synonyms for reverential

Adjective

Others regard the unum as a pious myth.

— James Traub, The Atlantic, 28 June 2026
However, this distinction did more than pit pious Americans against an atheist enemy.

— David Williamson, The Orlando Sentinel, 14 June 2026

Definition of pious

Adjective

India’s religious and spiritual economy was estimated at roughly $58 billion in 2025, and is projected to grow steadily over the next decade.

— Ayushi Shah, CNN Money, 4 July 2026
Amid a host of synthetic textures, the batá grounds the record in its spiritual reference; only the twins’ perspective changes.

— Stefanie Fernández, Pitchfork, 3 July 2026

Definition of spiritual

Adjective

Having witnessed centuries of religious warfare in Europe, when millions were killed for their beliefs, the framers took pains to make sure nothing like that would happen here.

— Kenneth Seeskin, Chicago Tribune, 5 July 2026
Supporters argue that the gatherings represent a form of devotion untethered from rigid rituals and the gatekeeping normally associated with temples or religious processions.

— Ayushi Shah, CNN Money, 4 July 2026

Definition of religious

Adjective

After a while, though, all the professions of sincerity and thanks, the constant invocations of the one true POTUS, and the worshipful exhibits upstairs give the whole place a cultish, nostalgic gleam.

— Justin Davidson, Curbed, 4 June 2026
The secret in the biscuits is the pairing of cheddar with bacon, with the overall result being worshipful thanks from those who are lucky enough to partake.

— Mary Shannon Wells, Southern Living, 25 May 2026

Definition of worshipful

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“Reverential.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/reverential. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of reverential

adjective

Example Sentences

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