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.
The first is a respectful look, of the kind usually reserved for truly intrepid adventurers. Holden Frith, TheWeek, 9 Jan. 2026 Attorney Manuel Carednas, who represented Villegas-Gonzalez in two of those cases, said his client, while undocumented, was respectful, hardworking and compliant with all court instructions regarding his traffic violations. Dave Savini, CBS News, 7 Jan. 2026 This said, the movers were very polite and respectful and removed all of the excess packing. Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 7 Jan. 2026 The community is welcome to join a thoughtful, respectful discussion across differences. Ut Community Press, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 Jan. 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 12 Jan. 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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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