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
Brett Martel, Chicago Tribune, 30 Aug. 2025
Never been thrown out of the game, would never disrespect an umpire.
—Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 30 Aug. 2025
Philip Elliott, Time, 4 Sep. 2025
Fresh out of a $24 million civil lawsuit, Cardi B isn't taking disrespect from anyone.
—Anthony Robledo, USA Today, 3 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for disrespect
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Verb
Angry Wave Sumrall suggested that Northwestern disrespected New Orleans when the Wildcats declined the Green Wave’s request to wear all-white uniforms without logos, like the 2005 Tulane team did in its first game after being displaced by Hurricane Katrina.
—Brett Martel, Chicago Tribune, 30 Aug. 2025
Never been thrown out of the game, would never disrespect an umpire.
—Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 30 Aug. 2025
Noun
Their shared disbelief in science and disrespect for expertise unites them.
—Philip Elliott, Time, 4 Sep. 2025
Fresh out of a $24 million civil lawsuit, Cardi B isn't taking disrespect from anyone.
—Anthony Robledo, USA Today, 3 Sep. 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 9 Sep. 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
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