PoliticsAugust 22, 2026

deferential

def-uh-REN-shul

Definition

Showing humble submission, respect, or high regard for the authority, status, or decisions of others.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'deferre,' meaning to carry down or yield, it evolved through Middle French into English to describe the act of giving way to the judgment or opinion of another.

In the news

The author notes that they are typically deferential to the higher courts as part of their democratic values, but argues that this specific court ruling smacks of undue accommodation for powerful interests.

Oligarchy bends the second-highest court in the land

Read the full article ↗

The Manila Times

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