respectability

[ri-spek-tuh-bil-i-tee]

noun

plural

respectabilities 

1. the state or quality of being respectable.

2. respectable social standing, character, or reputation.

3. a respectable person or persons.

4. respectabilities, things accepted as respectable.

Other Word Forms

• nonrespectability noun
• prerespectability noun
• semirespectability noun
• superrespectability noun
• unrespectability noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of respectability¹

First recorded in 1775–85; respectable + -ity

Example Sentences

“The only enemy I have is peace,” she’ll say, managing to maintain an air of well-connected respectability while doing the dirty work.

From Los Angeles Times

"It uses lies to maintain respectability, but it allows some people to find the truth," he says.

From BBC

Smale dragged her side towards vague respectability, putting on an unbroken partnership of 29 with Gregory.

From BBC

So how did he brilliantly succeed where other directors only managed earnest respectability?

From Los Angeles Times

The exhibition is divided into 12 conceptual sections: ownership, presence, distinction, disguise, freedom, champion, respectability, jook, heritage, beauty, cool and cosmopolitanism.

From Salon

Related Words

• decency 
• honesty 
• propriety