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.
Young people develop civic competence by experimenting with political action as well as by participating in respectful classroom discussions. Christopher L. Eisgruber, Time, 9 Oct. 2025 His take was thoughtful, emotional and respectful of the house’s DNA, and set a tone of elevated sophistication that made the debut feel both fresh and timeless. Rhonda Richford, Footwear News, 8 Oct. 2025 Employers have both the right and responsibility to protect a respectful, civil culture. Johnny C. Taylor Jr, USA Today, 7 Oct. 2025 These respectful behaviors help dogs feel safe and understood. Maria Azzurra Volpe, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Oct. 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 14 Oct. 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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