deference Meaning, Definition & Usage

noun a courteous expression (by word or deed) of esteem or regard
respect.
- his deference to her wishes was very flattering
- be sure to give my respects to the dean
noun courteous regard for people's feelings
respect; respectfulness.
- in deference to your wishes
- out of respect for his privacy
noun a disposition or tendency to yield to the will of others
obligingness; compliance; complaisance; compliancy.

F. déférence. See 3d Defer.

A yielding of judgment or preference from respect to the wishes or opinion of another; submission in opinion; regard; respect; complaisance.
Deference to the authority of thoughtful and sagacious men. Whewell.

Deference is the most complicate, the most indirect, and the most elegant of all compliments. Shenstone.
Syn. -- Deference, Reverence, Respect. Deference marks an inclination to yield one's opinion, and to acquiesce in the sentiments of another in preference to one's own. Respect marks the estimation that we have for another, which makes us look to him as worthy of high confidence for the qualities of his mind and heart. Reverence denotes a mingling of fear with a high degree of respect and esteem. Age, rank, dignity, and personal merit call for deference; respect should be paid to the wise and good; reverence is due to God, to the authors of our being, and to the sanctity of the laws.