as in deferent
marked by or showing proper regard for another's higher status
the children were remarkably respectful while in the president's office
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Recent Examples of respectful
This has challenged educators and specialists to reflect on our language, practices and philosophies to ensure that our work is respectful, person-centered and affirming of neurodiversity.
—
Alec Johnson, jsonline.com, 25 Mar. 2026
Be respectful and avoid areas that are closed due to damage, like Oahu’s North Shore and Hana, Maui.
—Jen Murphy, Outside, 24 Mar. 2026
Our aim is to try to build a respectful relationship.
—NBC news, 22 Mar. 2026
So our approach has to be better and more respectful.
—Kristian Winfield, New York Daily News, 21 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for respectful
Alec Johnson, jsonline.com, 25 Mar. 2026
Be respectful and avoid areas that are closed due to damage, like Oahu’s North Shore and Hana, Maui.
—Jen Murphy, Outside, 24 Mar. 2026
Our aim is to try to build a respectful relationship.
—NBC news, 22 Mar. 2026
So our approach has to be better and more respectful.
—Kristian Winfield, New York Daily News, 21 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for respectful
Recent Examples of Synonyms for respectful
Adjective
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The Ptolemaic model depicted planets moving around Earth in a big circle, known as a deferent, then going around a smaller circle while retrograding, called an epicycle.—
Carlie Procell,
USA Today,
25 Feb. 2026
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And many advocates are promoting a vision of public health that’s less dependent on mandates and appeals to authority, and more deferent to individuals’ beliefs.—
ArsTechnica,
ArsTechnica,
4 Aug. 2025
Adjective
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Jeremiah is a friendly, affectionate and respectful teen who is known for his polite manners and eagerness to help others.—
The Star,
Kansas City Star,
28 Mar. 2026
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Present and correct, just in smaller quantities than previously, and now obliged to make polite conversation with Alexandra Champalimaud’s additions.—
Condé Nast,
Condé Nast Traveler,
26 Mar. 2026
Adjective
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At the start of the season, there was a deferential aspect to Jakucionis’ play, including his shooting.—
Ira Winderman,
Sun Sentinel,
17 Mar. 2026
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Harrell thinks the courts could be deferential to the White House in that respect, but that increasing the duty to 15 percent could invite greater legal scrutiny and make the argument more wobbly.—
Jasmin Malik Chua,
Sourcing Journal,
10 Mar. 2026
Adjective
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The gallery hummed with the ideal number and mix of people—reverent Sherald fans, art students in statement glasses, and little kids rushing up to the massive canvases and screaming in delight.—
Josh Tyrangiel,
The Atlantic,
22 Mar. 2026
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In this environment of diffused light and reverent craftsmanship are 89 guest rooms and suites plus three completely unique dining concepts.—
Condé Nast,
Condé Nast Traveler,
21 Mar. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Respectful.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/respectful. Accessed 2 Apr. 2026.
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