irreverence

noun

ir·​rev·​er·​ence i-ˈre-v(ə-)rən(t)s How to pronounce irreverence (audio)
ˌi(r)-, 
-ˈre-vərn(t)s
Synonyms of irreverence
1
: lack of reverence
2
: an irreverent act or utterance

Synonyms of irreverence

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Examples of irreverence in a Sentence

the sect has no tolerance for any irreverence directed toward their spiritual leader
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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noah Goldstein, Sir Dylan, and Jake Miller, who produced the song with Rosalía, were surgical in structuring this masterpiece together, juxtaposing the song’s irreverence with its intense spirituality. — Charisma Madarang, Rolling Stone, 12 Oct. 2026 While the lobby is trés analogue, the rooms embrace modernity, and each features a lounge area that combines midcentury-modern furniture with art that evokes grunge-era irreverence. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 Oct. 2026 But also to the success speaking to a desire for authenticity and irreverence. — Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 26 Sep. 2026 And yet the movie’s central storyline hints at writer-director Bassam Tariq’s inclination to subvert his own brooding-antihero saga, allowing room for unpredictability and the slightest whiff of impish irreverence. — Los Angeles Times, 25 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for irreverence

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of irreverence was in the 14th century

Rhymes for irreverence

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Browse Nearby Words

irrevelant
irreverence
irreverency
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Cite this Entry

“Irreverence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/irreverence. Accessed 14 Oct. 2026.

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