Eerbiedig

Eerbiedig is a Dutch adjective meaning reverent, respectful, particularly in relation to sacred matters, authority, or tradition. It conveys a sense of solemnity and veneration rather than casual politeness, and it is often associated with formal or ceremonial contexts.

The word is derived from the noun eerbied (reverence) and is used to express a quality of demeanor, speech, or gesture that shows deep respect. It belongs to a formal register and is commonly found in religious settings, official occasions, or literary prose. In everyday speech, milder terms such as beleefd or respectvol are more typical, while eerbiedig signals a stronger sense of reverence. The concept has cognates in other Germanic languages, such as German ehrfürchtig, which conveys a similar idea of sacred or profound reverence.

Usage guidance: Eerbiedig is used to describe how someone acts or speaks toward others, especially figures of authority or sacred symbols. Examples include een eerbiedige buiging (a reverent bow), een eerbiedige stilte (a reverent silence), oreerbiedig tot iemand spreken (to speak to someone with reverence). It is less common in casual conversation and more likely to appear in religious discourse, ceremonial language, or literary texts. The tone associated with eerbiedig is aspirational and solemn, rather than merely polite.

See also: eerbied (reverence). The adjective emphasizes reverence and solemn regard, marking a clear distinction from everyday politeness.