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Noun: deference  de-fu-run(t)s or def-run(t)s
  1. A courteous expression (by word or deed) of esteem or regard
    "his deference to her wishes was very flattering";
    - respect
     
  2. Courteous regard for people's feelings
    "in deference to your wishes";
    - respect, respectfulness
     
  3. A disposition or tendency to yield to the will of others
    - complaisance, compliance, compliancy, obligingness

Derived forms: deferences

Type of: agreeability, agreeableness, civility, courtesy, good manners, politeness

Encyclopedia: Deference