dis·re·spect
ˌdis-ri-ˈspekt 
disrespected; disrespecting; disrespects
1
: to lack special regard or respect for : to have disrespect (see disrespect entry 2) for
disrespects authority
: low regard or esteem for someone or something : lack of respect
treating a teacher with disrespect
meant no disrespect to you
disrespectfulness
noun
Examples of disrespect in a Sentence
Verb
a comedian who shuns jokes that disrespect people because of their appearance
the player once again disrespected fans by refusing to sign autographs
Noun
The student treated the teacher with disrespect.
I'm sorry. I meant no disrespect.
He showed a shocking disrespect for authority.
Recent Examples on the Web
Rafael Olmeda, Sun Sentinel, 21 Jan. 2026
In addition to callous disregard for former Marylanders’ livelihoods and well-being, by not maintaining the voter rolls, the State Board of Elections disrespects every single Marylander who has a right to vote.
—Nicolee Ambrose, Baltimore Sun, 13 Jan. 2026
Reuters, NBC news, 23 Jan. 2026
Disagreement does not require disrespect.
—Robert Daugherty, Forbes.com, 22 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for disrespect
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Verb
Deerfield Beach is cutting ties with the Broward Sheriff’s Office after a 35-year relationship that deteriorated over the last 12 months, with each side accusing the other of disrespecting leadership and putting politics and personalities ahead of policing needs.
—Rafael Olmeda, Sun Sentinel, 21 Jan. 2026
In addition to callous disregard for former Marylanders’ livelihoods and well-being, by not maintaining the voter rolls, the State Board of Elections disrespects every single Marylander who has a right to vote.
—Nicolee Ambrose, Baltimore Sun, 13 Jan. 2026
Noun
Club Brugge supporters who wore ‘mankinis’ made famous by the satirical character Borat for their team’s Champions League clash against Kairat Almaty on Tuesday have been jailed in Kazakhstan for five days for showing disrespect, Belgian media reported on Thursday.
—Reuters, NBC news, 23 Jan. 2026
Disagreement does not require disrespect.
—Robert Daugherty, Forbes.com, 22 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for disrespect
Cite this Entry
“Disrespect.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/disrespect. Accessed 28 Jan. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
disrespect
1 of 2 verb
dis·re·spect
ˌdis-ri-ˈspekt
1
: to have disrespect for
2
: to show or express disrespect or dislike for : insult
disrespect
2 of 2 noun
: lack of respect : discourtesy
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