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

Some of the most respectful conversations a leader can have are also the most difficult or uncomfortable ones. — Farida Abjani, Forbes.com, 23 Sep. 2026

Judges thanked the audience for maintaining a respectful decorum for an intense and sensitive case. — Jen Guadarrama, IndyStar, 21 Sep. 2026

Whomever the Black citizens of Los Angeles are voting for, their respectful depiction is a rare departure from the usual screen stereotypes of the 1930s. — Thomas Doherty, HollywoodReporter, 19 Sep. 2026

Dion appeared to be surrounded by security, with onlookers close to her yet respectful of her space. — Ashley Iasimone, Billboard, 19 Sep. 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