respectful

[ri-spekt-fuhl]

adjective

1. full of, characterized by, or showing politeness or deference.

   a respectful reply.

   Synonyms: deferential, civil, decorous, polite, courteous
   Antonyms: disrespectful, discourteous

respectful

/ rɪˈspɛktfʊl /

adjective

1. full of, showing, or giving respect

Other Word Forms

• respectfully adverb
• respectfulness noun
• quasi-respectful adjective
• quasi-respectfully adverb
• unrespectful adjective
• unrespectfully adverb
• unrespectfulness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of respectful¹

First recorded in 1590–1600; respect + -ful

Example Sentences

"We expect everyone who supports and follows the club to behave in a respectful and responsible manner," the statement read.

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Ms. Denning, who made a living by showing members of the public how to have respectful encounters with spinner dolphins, lost 90% of her income.

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Much of Xenarios and Anderson’s early work, therefore, focused on standardizing these interactions, to make them more respectful and effective.

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Millogo said his parents taught him to be respectful and friendly.

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From the start, Davids tried to stamp his authority - telling the players to call him 'Sir' or 'Mister', a respectful equivalent of 'gaffer' common in Italian football.

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Related Words

• admiring 
• appreciative 
• civil 
• considerate 
• deferential 
• gracious 
• humble 
• obedient 
• polite 
• reverent 
• reverential 
• self-effacing 
• well-mannered