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
Anthony Solorzano, Los Angeles Times, 5 Feb. 2026
The Bruins continued to disrespect his offense despite his constant reminders.
—Aaron Heisen, Daily News, 1 Feb. 2026
Jessica Radloff, Glamour, 29 Jan. 2026
Not the kind of disrespect that doesn’t see you as human, mind.
—Alexandra Petri, The Atlantic, 28 Jan. 2026
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
In the video, the Kalogeras Sisters said they felt disrespected by staff and attacked by the comics in the audience.
—Anthony Solorzano, Los Angeles Times, 5 Feb. 2026
The Bruins continued to disrespect his offense despite his constant reminders.
—Aaron Heisen, Daily News, 1 Feb. 2026
Noun
No disrespect to Polin or Benophie, but the ton just isn’t the same without Bridgerton’s Kanthony—that would be Kate Sharma Bridgerton and Viscount Anthony Bridgerton, thank you very much.
—Jessica Radloff, Glamour, 29 Jan. 2026
Not the kind of disrespect that doesn’t see you as human, mind.
—Alexandra Petri, The Atlantic, 28 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 9 Feb. 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
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
