respectful

adjective

re·​spect·​ful ri-ˈspekt-fəl How to pronounce respectful (audio)
Synonyms of respectfulnext
: 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.
Visitors are quickly welcomed into this respectful rhythm, and that’s where Costa Rica’s transformative power begins. Meghan Palmer, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 Mar. 2026 Jeremiah is a friendly, affectionate and respectful teen who is known for his polite manners and eagerness to help others. The Star, Kansas City Star, 28 Mar. 2026 The respectful ritual provided for Trinity was not the typical way Native Americans’ remains were treated in Fort Worth’s early years. Matthew Adams, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 26 Mar. 2026 One who grew up respectful but annoyed by the success the league previously had in Seattle. Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 25 Mar. 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Respectful.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/respectful. Accessed 31 Mar. 2026.

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

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster