Spanish Conversation · Level 19
90 words
Spanish word
reverencia
Pronunciation
IPA/reβeˈɾenθja/
Meaning
- feminine nounbow
Example
Ella hizo una reverencia al subir al escenario.
She made a bow as she went on stage.
More examples
El embajador saludó con una reverencia al entrar en la sala.
The ambassador greeted with a bow as he entered the room.
Core concept
Inclining the head and chest as a respectful greeting.
Common phrases
hacer una reverencia
make a bow
saludar con una reverencia
greet with a bow
inclinarse en señal de reverencia
bow as a sign of respect
Similar words
saludo: Short spoken or physical greeting directed to someone when first meeting them.
inclinación: Forward tilt of the head or body as a simple physical movement.
Definition in Spanish
Gesto formal de inclinar el cuerpo o la cabeza para mostrar respeto o saludo.
Word origin
Derived from Latin reverentia 'respect', the Spanish noun refers specifically to the physical gesture implied by that root rather than only to abstract respect.
Usage tips
- In ordinary conversation Spanish speakers prefer lighter gestures or verbal greetings, so reverencia appears mainly in ceremonial, religious, or theatrical contexts.
Other meanings
- reverencenoun
Opposites
- irreverenciairreverencenoun
- desdéndisdainnoun
Related words
- reverenciarrevereverb
- reverentereverentadjective
- reverencialreverentialadjective