irreverential

irreverential

A student makes an irreverential joke during a history lecture.

Definition
  1. Adjective:
    • Lacking proper respect: "irreverential" describes an attitude or behavior that shows a lack of due respect, especially toward sacred things, authority, or conventions. It implies a disregard for what is typically held in high regard, often in a playful or disdainful manner.
Usage Examples
  • (His remarks showed a lack of respect for the formal event.)
  • (The comedian's approach lacked proper respect for authority figures.)
  • (Her gesture showed disregard for the expected respectful behavior.)
Advanced Usage

  • "irreverential humor": a type of comedy that mocks or satirizes serious topics, such as religion, politics, or tradition.

    • The show became famous for its irreverential humor, often crossing boundaries of good taste. (The comedy was known for disrespecting conventional norms.)

  • "irreverential tone": a manner of speaking or writing that is dismissive or mocking toward established beliefs.

    • The article adopted an irreverential tone toward the monarchy, which sparked controversy. (The writing lacked respect for the royal institution.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Irreverent (adj): the more common form, meaning lacking proper respect or seriousness.

    • He is known for his irreverent jokes about the boss. (He makes disrespectful jokes about the supervisor.)

  • Irreverence (n): the quality or state of being irreverent; lack of respect.

    • Her irreverence toward the school's traditions got her into trouble. (Her disrespectful attitude caused problems.)

  • Reverential (adj): the opposite of irreverential; showing deep respect or reverence.

    • The audience was reverential during the memorial service. (They showed great respect.)
Synonyms
  • Disrespectful: showing a lack of respect or courtesy.
  • Impious: lacking reverence or respect for God or sacred things (often in a religious context).
  • Sacrilegious: treating something sacred with disrespect (stronger, implying violation of sacredness).
Related Idioms

  • "To take the Lord's name in vain": to use a sacred name in a disrespectful way, often as a curse.

    • His irreverential remarks were seen as taking the Lord's name in vain. (His comments were considered blasphemous.)

  • "To thumb one's nose at": to show open disrespect or defiance toward authority or convention.

    • The artist's irreverential work thumbs its nose at traditional art forms. (The art openly mocks established styles.)