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.
Colleges generally try to create respectful campus communities in which students feel seen and safe. Ingrid A. Nelson, The Conversation, 29 May 2026 When people are approached repeatedly in a respectful and non-judgmental way, given time to build trust, and clearly informed of available resources, many will eventually accept help. Mercury News Editorial Board, Mercury News, 29 May 2026 What might an average citizen do to eliminate this toxicity and to insist on a higher, respectful level of political discussion? Dp Opinion, Denver Post, 29 May 2026 If a teammate pushes for speed, clarify the goal, then suggest a respectful timeline that protects your best work and energy. Tarot.com, The Orlando Sentinel, 27 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 5 Jun. 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

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