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.
Both teams come into the series in first place in their respective divisions. Abbey Mastracco, New York Daily News, 16 May 2025 Differences In Management Scope And Complexity Another significant distinction between DSTs and 721 REITs is the scope of their investments and the respective management complexities associated with them. Chay Lapin, Forbes.com, 16 May 2025 Tensions still flare in their relationship, however, not to mention the conflicts with their respective in-laws, including Jim's mom, Mary (Zoe Perry), and Mandy's mom, Audrey (Rachel Bay Jones). Randall Colburn, EW.com, 16 May 2025 With both women fired from their respective boards, those bodies lack the quorum necessary to make critical decisions. Jack Birle, The Washington Examiner, 16 May 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 21 May. 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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