venerate
/ˈvɛn.ər.eɪt/ IELTSAcademic
verb
To feel and show deep respect for someone or something. It is stronger and more formal than simple respect.
- They venerate their grandparents.
- Many people venerate great teachers.
- The statue is venerated by visitors.
Adinary Nuance
Venerate is stronger and more formal than respect. It often suggests deep admiration, or even a near-religious level of honour. Use admire for liking someone, respect for general regard, and venerate for very deep reverence.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- tôn kính
- Spanish
- venerar
- Chinese
- 尊敬
- Japanese
- 崇敬する
- Korean
- 숭배하다
Etymology
Venerate comes from Latin venerari, meaning “to worship” or “to respect.” It entered English in the 16th century, first in religious writing.
Common phrases
venerate the deadvenerate traditionswidely veneratedvenerated figure
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is venerate a formal word?
- Yes. It is formal and more common in writing than in everyday speech.
- What is the difference between venerate and respect?
- Respect is general. Venerate means much deeper respect, often with great awe.
- Can I use venerate for people?
- Yes. It is often used for elders, religious figures, and famous leaders.
- Is venerate used in daily conversation?
- Not often. People usually say respect, admire, or look up to instead.