respectful

adjective

re·​spect·​ful ri-ˈspekt-fəl How to pronounce respectful (audio)
Synonyms of respectfulnext
: marked by or showing respect or deference
respectfully adverb
respectfulness noun

Examples of respectful in a Sentence

the children were remarkably respectful while in the president's office
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Its goal is to ensure that AI developed and used in Europe is trustworthy, human-centric and respectful of fundamental rights, while also supporting innovation and competitiveness. Nick Vivarelli, Variety, 15 May 2026 But Even Realities’ products are deliberately camera- and speaker-free, to provide a respectful approach. David Phelan, Forbes.com, 15 May 2026 Everyone was very, very cordial, very respectful. Greta Cross, USA Today, 14 May 2026 He is well liked by both peers and teachers and is known for being courteous, respectful, and thoughtful in his interactions. CBS News, 13 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for respectful

Word History

First Known Use

1593, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of respectful was in 1593

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Respectful.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/respectful. Accessed 18 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

respectful

adjective
re·​spect·​ful ri-ˈspekt-fəl How to pronounce respectful (audio)
: marked by or showing respect
a respectful manner
respectful of others
respectfully adverb
respectfulness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on respectful

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster