Definition of defer

< defer

deference >

de·fer²    (d-fûr) KEY 

VERB:
de·ferred, de·fer·ring, de·fers
VERB:
intr.

To submit to the opinion, wishes, or decision of another through respect or in recognition of his or her authority, knowledge, or judgment. See Synonyms at yield.

VERB:
tr.

To commit or entrust to another.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English deferen, from Old French deferer, from Latin dferre, to carry away, refer to : d-, de- + ferre, to carry; see bher-¹ in Indo-European roots

OTHER FORMS:
de·ferrer(Noun)