irreverence

[ih-rev-er-uhns]

noun

1. the quality of being irreverent; lack of reverence or respect.

2. an irreverent act or statement.

3. the condition of not being reverenced, venerated, respected, etc.

irreverence

/ ɪˈrɛvərəns, ɪˈrɛvrəns /

noun

1. lack of due respect or veneration; disrespect

2. a disrespectful remark or act

Word History and Origins

Origin of irreverence¹

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English word from Latin word irreverentia. See ir- ², reverence

Example Sentences

Taking nothing too serious while being surrounded by complete seriousness, and with “Gutfeld!” pulling in some of the strongest ratings on TV, he’s proving that irreverence can be its own kind of relevance.

From Los Angeles Times

And so you can expect a lot of that: irreverence and good vibes.

From Los Angeles Times

Sandler called the movie “Happy Gilmore” and found a wide audience that loved it for its irreverence about a game that flaunts hushed reverence.

From Los Angeles Times

But it’s clear that there’s a hunger for earnestness amid the irreverence.

From Salon

The mutual irreverence between Posey and her character was as disarming as it was refreshing.

From Salon