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
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.
This decision reflects our collective commitment to fostering a collaborative, equitable, and respectful work environment. Katie Campione, Deadline, 14 Jan. 2025 Leaders should consistently model respectful and inclusive behaviors, demonstrating how to handle conflict constructively while recognizing the contributions of others. Sandy Harvey, Forbes, 10 Jan. 2025 The day began with a relatively peaceful and respectful walk into Hard Rock Stadium for fans from both programs. Manny Navarro, The Athletic, 9 Jan. 2025 If any new buildings are constructed on the land, they must be done in a way that is respectful of the landscape and of the historic architecture, There should be little sense that anything has been built at all, and in Palm Beach, that’s unlikely. Miami Herasld Archives, Miami Herald, 7 Jan. 2025 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

Dictionary Entries Near respectful

Cite this Entry

“Respectful.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/respectful. Accessed 19 Jan. 2025.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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