respect 1 of 2

Definition of respectnext

respect

2 of 2

verb

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb respect contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of respect are admire, esteem, and regard. While all these words mean "to recognize the worth of a person or thing," respect implies a considered evaluation or estimation.

after many years they came to respect her views

When can admire be used instead of respect?

While in some cases nearly identical to respect, admire suggests usually enthusiastic appreciation and often deep affection.

a friend that I truly admire

When could esteem be used to replace respect?

The words esteem and respect can be used in similar contexts, but esteem implies greater warmth of feeling accompanying a high valuation.

no citizen of the town was more highly esteemed

When might regard be a better fit than respect?

The words regard and respect are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, regard is a general term that is usually qualified.

he is highly regarded in the profession

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of respect
Noun
Every deputy will be expected to treat all individuals with dignity and respect, regardless of background. Sierra Van Der Brug, Daily News, 4 May 2026 Our approach must balance respect for federal authority with the safety, rights, and trust of our communities. Kaitlyn Schallhorn, Oc Register, 4 May 2026
Verb
New restaurants continue to open, experimenting with fusion menus and modern techniques while respecting the fundamentals. Taylor Haught, Kansas City Star, 1 May 2026 There’s this idea that the best hunters respect their prey by using everything. Brian Davids, HollywoodReporter, 30 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for respect
Recent Examples of Synonyms for respect
Noun
  • While the song marks the first collaboration between Gaga and Doechii, both have expressed admiration for the other.
    Emily Zemler, Rolling Stone, 1 May 2026
  • In her opening remarks onstage at the Academy of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles, Carson expressed her deep admiration for those who work to make movies come to life.
    Yamillah Hurtado, PEOPLE, 29 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • In this regard, strategic collaboration through an enterprise partnership can help expand the capabilities of both businesses, resulting in win-win solutions for everyone involved.
    Daniel Fusch, USA Today, 1 May 2026
  • While the char siu and pork belly draw plenty of attention — as well as regular lines out the door — her panang curry merits equal regard.
    Carolyn Burt, Oc Register, 1 May 2026
Noun
  • The State's Attorney's Office argued the McDonald case was a completely different situation than what the coalition wants investigated in regards to Operation Midway Blitz.
    Sabrina Franza, CBS News, 24 Apr. 2026
  • In regards to the Texas Chainsaw Massacre feature rights won by A24, Obsession director Curry Barker is set to direct and write a reimagined version.
    Anthony D'Alessandro, Deadline, 21 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • Haitian fans have long admired the Brazilian team and fashion their play after the Brazilian fancy-passing style.
    Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald, 4 May 2026
  • The moment was especially impactful given that Delany had spent most of her childhood admiring the Oscar-winning actor.
    Meredith Wilshere, PEOPLE, 3 May 2026
Noun
  • The night started with bowling, heartfelt speeches from Pollack, and reunions between old and new friends alike, all underscored with a deep appreciation for the cause.
    Michael Van Runkle, Robb Report, 1 May 2026
  • After eliminating the Hawks, his tone was one of appreciation — directed at Quin Snyder.
    Kristian Winfield, New York Daily News, 1 May 2026
Noun
  • Corso is a reference to [beat poet] Gregory Corso.
    Brian Hiatt, Rolling Stone, 1 May 2026
  • The people currently in charge of creating the rules don’t sit in the driver’s seat, and real-life experience of how the cars feel and behave could be useful as another data point to reference.
    Madeline Coleman, New York Times, 1 May 2026
Noun
  • The airport greetings take place at both the Evans and McNamara Terminals, and several dogs have participated in the program over the years.
    Paula Wethington, CBS News, 18 Apr. 2026
  • Their unlikely friendship began in a New Hampshire neighborhood, where Blaisdell couldn’t resist Winter’s over‑the‑top greetings.
    Kelsey Monstrola, USA Today, 15 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • Libras can be superficial because the sign is ruled by Venus, which appreciates beauty, as Sarah calls Bonnie out for after her surgery.
    Lisa Stardust, PEOPLE, 3 May 2026
  • Thyme is another plant that doesn't appreciate moisture or humidity.
    Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 3 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Respect.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/respect. Accessed 5 May. 2026.

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