# venerable

/ˈvɛnɝəbəɫ/ (US) · /vˈɛnəɹəbəl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/venerable
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

deserving a lot of respect because of age, wisdom, or character. You often use this to describe people, buildings, or traditions that have existed for a long time.

For teachers: deserving of great respect, especially by virtue of age, wisdom, or historical character. Often used to describe established institutions or elderly individuals of high standing.

## Examples

- The venerable professor retired after fifty years of teaching.
- The town's venerable library has served as a quiet sanctuary for local scholars for over a century.
- The venerable institution maintained its strict traditions despite the rapid social changes occurring in the surrounding city, serving as a physical anchor to the community's shared past.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun; often carries a formal or literary tone.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.