respectful

adjective

re·​spect·​ful ri-ˈspekt-fəl How to pronounce respectful (audio)
: marked by or showing respect or deference
respectfully adverb
respectfulness noun

Examples of respectful in a Sentence

the children were remarkably respectful while in the president's office
Recent Examples on the Web Patel offered some respectful counter-arguments; Andreessen responded by blocking him on X. Verdon recently had a three-hour video debate with a German doomer named Connor Leahy, sounding far more composed than his online persona. Andrew Marantz, The New Yorker, 11 Mar. 2024 Some kids are polite and respectful while others are mean and disruptive. Lauren Brown West-Rosenthal, Parents, 7 Mar. 2024 Duke and the line monitors said that discussion points at the town hall included using inclusive and respectful language, as well as an overview of conduct rules at Krzyzewskiville and at games. Emmanuel Morgan, New York Times, 7 Mar. 2024 The reference to Jerry Springer, a show where guests routinely antagonized the audience and attempted to assault one another on stage, hardly fits de Matteo’s goal of a mutually respectful forum that strengthens community. Miles Klee, Rolling Stone, 7 Mar. 2024 Success in these markets demands a strategy that is both localized and respectful of the unique characteristics of each region. Senton Kacaniku, Forbes, 28 Feb. 2024 Consider implementing training programs on workplace behavior for the entire team, reaffirming your commitment to a respectful workplace and educating employees on the importance of mutual respect and cooperation. Johnny C. Taylor Jr., USA TODAY, 27 Feb. 2024 Elegant interventions are respectful and intentional and can yield a plethora of advantages in a coaching context. Andrea Wanerstrand, Forbes, 1 Mar. 2024 The script is thoughtful and respectful, highlighting the weight of victim testimony and the power of a free press. Janey Tracey, EW.com, 29 Feb. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'respectful.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1593, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of respectful was in 1593

Dictionary Entries Near respectful

Cite this Entry

“Respectful.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/respectful. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

respectful

adjective
re·​spect·​ful ri-ˈspekt-fəl How to pronounce respectful (audio)
: marked by or showing respect
a respectful manner
respectful of others
respectfully adverb
respectfulness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on respectful

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