venerate

UK: ˈven.ə.reɪt | US: ˈven.ə.reɪt

Definition

  1. vt. to regard with deep respect or reverence

  2. vt. to honor as holy or sacred

Structure
vener <to worship>ate <verb suffix>vener <to worship>ate <verb suffix>
Etymology

venerate = vener<to worship> + ate<verb suffix>

  • vener<to worship>: From Latin venerari ("to worship, revere"), derived from venus ("love, charm"). The root implies devotion or admiration.
  • ate<verb suffix>: A common English suffix forming verbs, indicating an action or process.

Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Latin venerari, reflecting ancient practices of worshiping deities (e.g., Venus, the Roman goddess of love). Over time, it broadened to secular reverence for people or ideals. The suffix -ate standardizes it as a verb in English.

Examples

  1. Many cultures venerate their ancestors through rituals.

  2. The scholar was venerated for his contributions to science.

  3. Some religions venerate saints as intermediaries.

  4. The community venerates the old tree as a symbol of resilience.

  5. Leaders who uphold justice are often venerated by history.