respectful
Americanadjective
adjective
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of respectful
Explanation
If you’re respectful, you show consideration and regard for someone or something. Be respectful of your neighbors and turn down your disco music when it gets late. Respectful is the adjective form of the common word respect, which means a feeling of admiration. So when you behave in a way that’s respectful, you’re doing something to show admiration for another person. You might sit in respectful silence when your teacher enters the room. You can be respectful of situations as well as people. You might be respectful of the democratic process and not complain about not winning your school election.
Vocabulary lists containing respectful
List 1
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Positive and Uplifting Tones
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Workshop 4, Part 2
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
She likes the word “bipartisan” and refers to the state’s popular senior senator, Republican Tim Scott, in respectful terms.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 7, 2026
I believe it is because it is true and earnest and respectful, but it is also hella fun.
From Salon ● Oct. 7, 2026
She acknowledged he "may have had and developed some behavioural issues" but added: "He turned out to be one of the kindest, honest, most sincere, trustworthy and respectful people I have ever known."
From BBC ● Oct. 6, 2026
It was delightful, calming, efficient, respectful and actionable.
From MarketWatch ● Oct. 5, 2026
I made a respectful puja, bowing to the household shrine.
From "Homeless Bird" by Gloria Whelan
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Get a wordDefinitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
