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
Jillian Dara, Travel + Leisure, 5 June 2026
Matt Cardona interrupted the chat and Zayn tried to show Gargano he was still getting disrespected.
—Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 30 May 2026
Wyatt Williams, Harpers Magazine, 2 June 2026
Historical novelists are often charged with disrespect and unseriousness, of ransacking the archives for sensational scenery to hang behind their conventional family sagas and love stories.
—Katy Waldman, New Yorker, 1 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for disrespect
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Verb
From disrespecting local customs and getting pickpocketed to forgetting to reapply sunscreen and overpacking, European tour guides have truly seen it all.
—Jillian Dara, Travel + Leisure, 5 June 2026
Matt Cardona interrupted the chat and Zayn tried to show Gargano he was still getting disrespected.
—Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 30 May 2026
Noun
The idea is a partial and symbolic sharing, and the purpose is to break the link between hard work and disrespect.
—Wyatt Williams, Harpers Magazine, 2 June 2026
Historical novelists are often charged with disrespect and unseriousness, of ransacking the archives for sensational scenery to hang behind their conventional family sagas and love stories.
—Katy Waldman, New Yorker, 1 June 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 14 Jun. 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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Merriam-Webster unabridged
