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.
Her boyfriend is sometimes, but not always, respectful or courteous to us. R. Eric Thomas, Chicago Tribune, 10 Apr. 2026 Here’s hoping that Nitehawk’s union-busting management learns from Alamo’s fatal self-own, signs a mutually respectful contract with its workers, and continues to provide a blessedly phone-free theatrical experience. David Ehrlich, IndieWire, 10 Apr. 2026 Grizzly bear populations are active and expanding, and understanding their behavior — from denning through spring emergence with cubs — is an essential part of staying safe and respectful in bear country. Hanna Wickes, Charlotte Observer, 10 Apr. 2026 Channel that fire into direct, respectful proposals. Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 9 Apr. 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 15 Apr. 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