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.
Strangers to one another, the two women build a quiet, respectful life together, though the reemergence of Betty’s estranged husband and son sheds light on the tragic past that explains the murky present. Jill Goldsmith, Deadline, 5 Aug. 2025 This false hope can drag out their heartbreak far longer than a direct, respectful rejection might. Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2025 It was bought by Susan and John Hagen, who plan to renovate it and are appreciative and respectful of its unique history. Eric Shawn, FOXNews.com, 2 Aug. 2025 Be assertive, not demanding, and always respectful. Robert D. Greenberg, Baltimore Sun, 2 Aug. 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Respectful.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/respectful. Accessed 21 Aug. 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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