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
Usa Today, USA Today, 9 July 2025
Ramsey reportedly was routinely late for team practices and openly disrespected McDaniel, Grier and former defensive coordinator Vic Fangio in front of teammates.
—Miami Herald, 8 July 2025
Susan Madsen, Forbes.com, 11 July 2025
And some supporters hesitated to show up, concerned their advocacy would be associated with what many saw as her disrespect toward Native Hawaiians and local fishers.
—Time, 9 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for disrespect
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.
Verb
As the moon clashes with Saturn, the sense that you’ve been disrespected eats at you.
—Usa Today, USA Today, 9 July 2025
Ramsey reportedly was routinely late for team practices and openly disrespected McDaniel, Grier and former defensive coordinator Vic Fangio in front of teammates.
—Miami Herald, 8 July 2025
Noun
To address the effects of disrespect that women encounter, researchers point to resilience as a characteristic for successful women leaders to develop.
—Susan Madsen, Forbes.com, 11 July 2025
And some supporters hesitated to show up, concerned their advocacy would be associated with what many saw as her disrespect toward Native Hawaiians and local fishers.
—Time, 9 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for disrespect
Cite this Entry
“Disrespect.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/disrespect. Accessed 24 Jul. 2025.
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
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share