Venerate

/ˈvɛnəreɪt/advancedverb

Museums, religious holidays, and sports legends all ask for a verb stronger than like but softer than worship.

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Meaning

To regard with great respect or reverence; to honor deeply.

Memory trick

VENERATE shares roots with "venerable", what you hold in high honor.

Examples

1

Many cultures venerate ancestors with annual rituals.

2

He did not venerate tradition for its own sake, only what still worked.

3

The community venerated the teacher who had mentored generations.

Synonyms

reverehonorrespectesteemidolizeexaltcherish

Antonyms

despisescorndisparagedenigratemockrevile

Etymology

From Latin venerari "to worship, honor," from Venus "love, charm" (related to veneration).

Usage Notes

More formal than “respect.” Often used for elders, traditions, or figures of moral authority.

Real-life contexts

1

Use for mentors: "I venerate the coaches who shaped my career."

2

Use for values: "We venerate craft over hustle theater."

3

Use carefully: "Venerate" can sound religious, match tone.

Common Mistakes

Venerate is not romantic love; it is deep respect or reverence.

Venerate: Meaning, Memory Trick & Examples | WordFlippin