This Week’s Word: Venerable \ˈve-nər(-ə)-bəl, ˈven-rə-bəl\ [VEN-er-uh-ble] adjective.
Venerable is a word used to describe someone who commands respect by virtue of age, dignity, character, or position.
Synonyms: Revered, Respected, Honored.
Etymology: Comes from the Latin Venerari, meaning “to worship or revere.”
Additional Information: Although used primarily as an adjective, venerable is sometimes used in the noun form by certain writers (especially clergymen). In certain religions, venerable fits into a certain figure’s title (i.e. “The Venerable Bede”, which is the primary label for St. Bede).
Sample 1: Carolyn was distraught when she learned that her grandfather was less than venerable, discovering that he was a gun-runner for the famous outlaw, Pancho Villa.
Sample 2: In addition to being a fantastic comedian and actor, Bob Hope has gone down in history as one of the most venerable celebrities of all time.