respective

adjective

re·​spec·​tive ri-ˈspek-tiv How to pronounce respective (audio)
1
: particular, separate
their respective homes
2
obsolete : partial, discriminative
respectiveness noun

Examples of respective in a Sentence

it was late when the concert let out, so we all went our respective ways
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.
Seth Rollins and Naomi won their respective matches and can cash-in an opportunity for a WWE championship any time and any place. Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 9 June 2025 Amal Clooney, Katie Holmes and more turned to Italian luxury fashion houses and runway inspiration for their respective looks. Julia Teti, Footwear News, 9 June 2025 Pescara’s path to glory included a narrow 2-1 win against Giana Erminio, a 2-2 draw with Catania, and respective blowout victories over Vis Pesaro (6-2) and Audace Cerignola (5-2). David Ferrini, Forbes.com, 8 June 2025 Still, drinking and spraying champagne to mark sporting success has remained, with soccer clubs Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool even bringing non-alcoholic versions into the locker room to ensure everyone could participate in celebrating their respective Europa League and Premier League successes. Elias Burke, New York Times, 8 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for respective

Word History

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of respective was in 1597

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Cite this Entry

“Respective.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/respective. Accessed 14 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

respective

adjective
re·​spec·​tive ri-ˈspek-tiv How to pronounce respective (audio)
: not the same or shared : separate
they hurried to their respective homes

More from Merriam-Webster on respective

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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