respectful

adjective

re·​spect·​ful ri-ˈspekt-fəl How to pronounce respectful (audio)
: 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.
Some include strengthening academic and residential life and including more Jewish student representation; supporting belonging and promoting respectful dialogue; and updating campus use rules and other procedures. Nick Mordowanec, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 June 2025 Her writing resonated with me as the father of a respectful, intelligent kid who may be stereotyped while wearing a black hoodie. Marshall Shepherd, Forbes.com, 29 June 2025 Edgewater Animal Control removed the dead animals from the property for respectful handling and appropriate final disposition. Elainie Barraza, The Orlando Sentinel, 29 June 2025 The organization looks forward to potential preservation proposals that will be respectful of the cottage and its history, Burke said. Michelle Mullins, Chicago Tribune, 27 June 2025 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 4 Jul. 2025.

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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