respectful

adjective

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

Synonyms of respectful

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Examples of respectful in a Sentence

the children were remarkably respectful while in the president's office
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In a statement to The Times, Austin FC said it was committed to providing a welcoming, safe and respectful environment for all fans. — Carlos De Loera, Los Angeles Times, 16 Oct. 2026 In a joint message shared on Facebook, the institutions reaffirmed their commitment to providing a safe, respectful and supportive environment for students. — Cbs News Atlanta Digital Team, CBS News, 16 Oct. 2026 Later in the interview, Hanson and I had an in-depth, respectful debate about—wait for it—the Historical Jesus. — Bobby Burack Outkick, FOXNews.com, 15 Oct. 2026 Returning from a brief social media hiatus, Adéla revived the conversation with an Instagram post defending Chinouriri and encouraging fans to be more respectful of other artists. — Larisha Paul, Rolling Stone, 14 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for respectful

Word History

First Known Use

1593, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of respectful was in 1593

Rhymes for respectful

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Browse Nearby Words

respecter
respectful
respecting
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Cite this Entry

“Respectful.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/respectful. Accessed 19 Oct. 2026.

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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
-fə-lē How to pronounce respectful (audio)
adverb
respectfulness noun
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