Cavalier and Deferential

Opposite meaning words

Cavalier adjective - Having a feeling of superiority that shows itself in an overbearing attitude.

Usage example: a cavalier and pompous boss, indifferent to the feelings of her subordinates

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Deferential is an antonym for cavalier.

Nearby Word: cavalierly

Deferential adjective - Marked by or showing proper regard for another's higher status.

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Cavalier is an antonym for deferential.

Cite this Source

Deferential and Cavalier. (2016). Retrieved 2026, August 16, from https://thesaurus.plus/related/cavalier/deferential

Cavalier & Deferential. N.p., 2016. Web. 16 Aug. 2026. <https://thesaurus.plus/related/cavalier/deferential>.

Deferential or Cavalier. 2016. Accessed August 16, 2026. https://thesaurus.plus/related/cavalier/deferential.

Google Ngram Viewer shows how "cavalier" and "deferential" have occurred on timeline