respectful

adjective

re·​spect·​ful ri-ˈspekt-fəl 

: marked by or showing respect or deference

respectfully

ri-ˈspekt-fə-lē 

adverb

respectfulness noun

Synonyms of respectful

• deferent
• regardful
• polite
• deferential
• reverent

Examples of respectful in a Sentence

the children were remarkably respectful while in the president's office

Recent Examples on the Web

Eventually and from a respectful distance, Ayres hopped in the water to get a better look at the whales. — Jackie Flynn Mogensen, Scientific American, 23 July 2026

Employees, regulators and leadership stakeholders increasingly expect organizations to demonstrate a visible commitment to respectful workplaces. — Elissa Rossi, Forbes.com, 23 July 2026

Of course, creating a culture of openness and respectful debate requires more than staving off government interference. — Annabelle Garland, The Atlantic, 23 July 2026

We're just relieved the tone on display is respectful and serious and not choked with jokes and gags as in the most recent MCU outings. — Jeff Spry, Space.com, 20 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1593, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for respectful

• neglectful
• disrespectful

Kids Definition

respectful

adjective

re·​spect·​ful ri-ˈspekt-fəl 

: marked by or showing respect

a respectful manner

respectful of others

respectfully

-fə-lē 

adverb

respectfulness noun