venerable

/ˈvɛnərəbl/
respected due to age or wisdom

The venerable professor had taught at the university for over 50 years.

The respected professor, due to his long experience, had taught for 50 years.


formal

Worthy of respect due to age, wisdom, or long-standing importance

The venerable institution has maintained its traditions for centuries.

The respected institution has preserved its traditions for centuries.

He was a venerable figure in the community, known for his kindness.

He was a respected figure in the community, known for his kindness.

Often used to describe people, institutions, or traditions that have earned respect over time.

Collocations

venerable institutiona respected organization with a long historyvenerable eldera respected older personvenerable traditiona long-standing respected custom

Pro Tip

Formal Usage

Use 'venerable' to describe something or someone that has earned respect over time, often in formal or literary contexts.

Word Origin

From Middle English 'venerable,' from Old French 'vénérable,' from Latin 'venerabilis,' meaning 'worthy of veneration,' from 'venerari' (to worship).

Usage Notes

Often used in formal or literary contexts to convey deep respect. Can describe people, places, or traditions.

Word Breakdown

ven
from Latin 'venus,' meaning 'love' or 'desire,' but in this context, it relates to reverence
root
+
-erable
able to be, worthy of
suffix
English Dictionary