Thumbing one's nose at someone or something is a defiant act of disrespect or disregard. Opposite antonyms for "thumbed nose at" include showing deference, admiration, and respect. Other antonyms to consider might include following the rules, adhering to protocol, or honoring traditions. The opposite of thumbing one's nose at authority figures could be following orders or showing deference to those in charge. Respecting laws, policies, or regulations could be another antonym for the defiant act of thumbing one's nose. In general, behaving with decorum, following etiquette, or upholding cultural norms, can be seen as antonyms to the discourteous nature of thumbing one's nose.