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venerable

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˈvɛnərəbl/

KK: /ˈvɛnərəbəl/

adjective
Definition

Deserving respect because of age, wisdom, or character, often associated with someone who has a long history or significant achievements.


Example

The venerable professor shared his knowledge with students eager to learn.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever met that venerable professor at the university?
Sloth B
No, I haven't, but I've heard he's really wise and respected.
Sloth A
He truly is; his lectures are filled with fascinating stories from history.
Sloth B
That sounds amazing! I'd love to attend one of his classes.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
esteemed
respected
revered
Antonyms
disreputable
contemptible
unworthy
Root Explanation

Venerable → It is formed from "venerari" (meaning to regard with reverence) and the suffix "-able" (meaning capable of). The word "venerable" describes someone who is worthy of respect due to age, wisdom, or character.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'capable of being revered' — 'venerari' means to regard with reverence, and '-able' means capable. This helps you remember that 'venerable' refers to someone deserving of great respect.

Visually Confused Words
veerable
unvenerable
vengeable
generable
enterable
vulnerable
tenderable
renderable
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