deference

/dˈɛfɚəns/ · 3 syllables

Meaning

noun

1. a courteous expression (by word or deed) of esteem or regard
   “his deference to her wishes was very flattering”
2. courteous regard for people's feelings
   “in deference to your wishes”
3. a disposition or tendency to yield to the will of others

Synonyms for deference

• respect
• respectfulness
• complaisance
• compliance
• compliancy
• obligingness

Words that rhyme with deference

• reference
• preference