- defer⇄defer (1), transitive verb, intransitive verb, -ferred,-ferring.
to put off; delay.
Ex. Examinations were deferred because so many students were sick.
(SYN) postpone. - defer⇄defer (2), intransitive verb, -ferred,-ferring.
to yield in judgment or opinion; submit courteously.
Ex. Children should defer to their parents' wishes.