deference
UK: ˈdef.ər.əns | US: ˈdef.ɚ.əns
n. respectful submission or yielding to the judgment, opinion, or wishes of another
n. courteous regard or respect
The word traces back to Latin dēferre, reflecting the idea of "carrying down" one's own will in favor of another's. Over time, defer shifted from literal "carrying" to metaphorical yielding, and the suffix -ence solidified its meaning as a noun denoting respectful submission. The logic mirrors societal hierarchies where deference signifies lowering oneself (metaphorically "carrying down") to honor authority or expertise.
She treated her elders with quiet deference.
The judge was shown deference by all in the courtroom.
His deference to tradition often clashed with modern ideas.
Out of deference to her feelings, he avoided the topic.
The team accepted the manager’s decision with deference.