Word of the Day Reverence – Meaning, Usage & IELTS Examples

Word of the Day: Reverence: Improving your vocabulary is essential for IELTS preparation. Today’s word, “Reverence,” is a great choice for IELTS Speaking and Writing when expressing respect, admiration, or deep regard in emotional or cultural situations.

Meaning of “Reverence”

Part of Speech: Noun
Definition: A feeling or gesture of deep respect, admiration, or honor.

Origin and History of the Word: “Reverence”

The word ‘Reverence’ originated in the late 14th century and was borrowed from Anglo-French. From the Latin word, ‘Reverentia’ from reverent -, reverens, which means respectful.

How to Use “Reverence” in IELTS Speaking & Writing?

Understanding the different forms of this word can help you use it naturally across a range of IELTS Speaking and IELTS Writing topics.

1. Noun: Reverence

Use this form when talking about respect for people, traditions, or beliefs.

Examples:

• I’ve taught my children to show reverence and respect towards elders.
• Rose speaks about her parents with profound reverence.
• It’s a good habit to have an attitude of reverence towards patriotic heroes.
• Many Indians treat animals with utmost reverence.
• She praised the deceased with most profound reverence and condolences.

2. Verb (Less Common Usage)

While “reverence” as a verb is rare in modern usage, it's occasionally used in formal or literary contexts.

Example:

• He reverenced the teachings of his ancestors.

3. Adverb: Reverentially

Describes the manner in which respect is shown.

Examples:

• When she saw her grandparents, she reverentially lowered her voice.
• Ashoka was one of India’s most reverentially remembered emperors.
• The mob reverentially applauded the bravery of the young man who rescued the grandmother from falling off the vehicle.
• Every citizen has to reverentially stand up when the National Anthem is sung.
• Rose took out the Bible and started reading it reverentially.

4. Adjective: Reverent

Use this when describing a respectful attitude or behavior.

Examples:

• He was appointed as the leader because he was brave, reverent, and decisive.
• When the principal shouted, everyone maintained a reverent silence in the prayer hall.
• The nurse treats the patients in a reverent manner.
• A reverent person always praises and thanks God for all his help and blessings.
• On Army Day, We offer a sincere and reverent homage to those brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives to protect our country.

IELTS Tip

Using words like reverence and its forms demonstrates a strong grasp of vocabulary and tone, especially when discussing topics like traditions, culture, religion, personal values, or memorable people in IELTS Speaking Part 2 or IELTS Writing Task 2.

Synonyms for Reverence

• Respect
• Admiration
• Awe
• Veneration
• Deference
• Devotion

Sample IELTS Speaking Answer using “Reverence”

Q: Describe a person you admire.
A: I would like to talk about my grandfather. He was a man of great wisdom and humility. I always speak about him with deep reverence because he taught me valuable life lessons. Even today, I try to follow his principles reverentially, especially when making difficult decisions.

Sample IELTS Writing Sentence

Educational institutions must instill a sense of reverence for cultural heritage among students to preserve national identity.

Whether you're discussing respected individuals, cultural practices, or national heroes in your IELTS test, using the word reverence appropriately can enhance your Lexical Resource score. Practice using its different forms in context to improve both your fluency and accuracy in Speaking and Writing. If you're aiming for top IELTS Band Score, follow the IELTS Exam Preparation Tips for Band Score of 8+ to further enhance your vocabulary and overall test performance.

Also Check: 

• 21+ Tips On How to Improve Your IELTS Writing Band Score
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• IELTS Pronunciation Guide 2025
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