English Meaning & Definitions
Showing a lack of respect for people or things that are generally taken seriously.
- “The comedian made irreverent jokes about the royal family.”
- “She has an irreverent attitude toward traditional corporate hierarchy.”
English Synonyms & Near Equivalents
English Antonyms & Opposites
Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown
Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “irreverent”.
Derived from the Latin 'irreverentem', formed from the prefix 'in-' (meaning 'not') and 'reverentem' (meaning 'reverent' or 'standing in awe'), from 'revereri' (to revere, stand in awe of). It entered the English language in the late 16th century to describe a lack of due respect toward sacred things, authority, or persons typically treated with deference.
Think of someone being 'ir-' (not) 'reverent' (showing respect) during a serious church service or royal ceremony.
Frequently Asked Questions About “irreverent”
1. What is the meaning of “irreverent” in English?
In English, irreverent (adjective) is defined as: “Showing a lack of respect for people or things that are generally taken seriously.”.
2. How do you use “irreverent” in a sentence?
“The comedian made irreverent jokes about the royal family.”
3. What are English synonyms of “irreverent”?
4. What is the etymology and word origin of “irreverent”?
Derived from the Latin 'irreverentem', formed from the prefix 'in-' (meaning 'not') and 'reverentem' (meaning 'reverent' or 'standing in awe'), from 'revereri' (to revere, stand in awe of). It entered the English language in the late 16th century to describe a lack of due respect toward sacred things, authority, or persons typically treated with deference.
🇬🇧More English Words to English
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A specific duration of time equal to one hour and forty-six minutes and twelve seconds.
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A specific duration of time equivalent to one hour and forty-six minutes.