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

Trump is certain to get Miss Manners approval for saying the leader of North Korea has been respectful and unthreatening. — Voice Of The People, New York Daily News, 20 Aug. 2026

Alex and Geddy headed to the tennis section while the three of us followed at a respectful distance, trying to keep cool. — Kevin Griffin, Rolling Stone, 19 Aug. 2026

Billingslea's family has described him as bright, respectful and determined, and a young man who dreamed of becoming an engineer. — Naveen Dhaliwal, CBS News, 18 Aug. 2026

Caudle has also met with both groups to discuss the future of the site, and said the conversation was respectful. — Desiree Mathurin, Charlotte Observer, 18 Aug. 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