respectful

adjective

re·​spect·​ful ri-ˈspekt-fəl 

: marked by or showing respect or deference

respectfully

ri-ˈspekt-fə-lē 

adverb

respectfulness noun

Synonyms of respectful

• deferent
• regardful
• polite
• deferential
• reverent

Examples of respectful in a Sentence

the children were remarkably respectful while in the president's office

Recent Examples on the Web

Safety measures should be unobtrusive, effective and respectful. — Joe Fleckenstein, Baltimore Sun, 1 Oct. 2026

In either case, Albury and Prince ask that attendees are respectful to one another. — Kailyn Brown, Los Angeles Times, 30 Sep. 2026

Flight attendants say small gestures like making eye contact, greeting crew, and saying thank you signal cooperative, respectful passengers. — Joey Skladany, Travel + Leisure, 29 Sep. 2026

Some of the most respectful conversations a leader can have are also the most difficult or uncomfortable ones. — Farida Abjani, Forbes.com, 23 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1593, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for respectful

• neglectful
• disrespectful

Kids Definition

respectful

adjective

re·​spect·​ful ri-ˈspekt-fəl 

: marked by or showing respect

a respectful manner

respectful of others

respectfully

-fə-lē 

adverb

respectfulness noun