noun
veneration
ven-uh-RAY-shun/ˌvenəˈreɪʃn/
Deep respect or reverent honor.
The kneeling woman shows veneration before the devotional statue.
Etymology
Veneration names the act of revering or worshipping. Its early association with solemn religious worship helps explain why it denotes profound respect, rather than ordinary approval or admiration.
In context
After his canonization, St. Philip's body was exposed for veneration under the altar of his chapel in Rome, where it can still be seen today.
More examples
- She speaks of her former teacher with veneration.
- The shrine is a place of religious veneration.
- His veneration for the Constitution shapes his political views.
Forms
venerate verb — To regard with deep respect or reverence.
Similar words
- reverence
- Suggests awe or sacred feeling, often in religious settings.
- respect
- Broader esteem or regard, without necessarily implying deep reverence.
- admiration
- Emphasizes appreciation of achievements or qualities rather than reverent honor.