respective
adjective
re·spec·tive
ri-ˈspek-tiv 
1
: particular, separate
their respective homes
2
obsolete
: partial, discriminative
respectiveness
noun
Examples of respective in a Sentence
it was late when the concert let out, so we all went our respective ways
Recent Examples on the Web
Leaders choose who is on respective committees from their caucuses.
—
Caroline Cummings, CBS News, 6 Apr. 2026
Opinions expressed in this material may differ or be contrary to opinions expressed, or actions taken, by Fairlead Strategies or its affiliates, or their respective officers, directors, or employees.
—Katie Stockton, CNBC, 6 Apr. 2026
The brothers both joined the Army and then started respective careers in law enforcement.
—Jay Stahl, USA Today, 4 Apr. 2026
All three have served in their respective nations’ air forces.
—Richard Tribou, The Orlando Sentinel, 4 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for respective
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.
Caroline Cummings, CBS News, 6 Apr. 2026
Opinions expressed in this material may differ or be contrary to opinions expressed, or actions taken, by Fairlead Strategies or its affiliates, or their respective officers, directors, or employees.
—Katie Stockton, CNBC, 6 Apr. 2026
The brothers both joined the Army and then started respective careers in law enforcement.
—Jay Stahl, USA Today, 4 Apr. 2026
All three have served in their respective nations’ air forces.
—Richard Tribou, The Orlando Sentinel, 4 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for respective
Cite this Entry
“Respective.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/respective. Accessed 8 Apr. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
respective
adjective
re·spec·tive
ri-ˈspek-tiv
: not the same or shared : separate
they hurried to their respective homes
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
