respectfulness

noun

as in deference

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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 respectfulness People considered other traits – such as loyalty, reliability, respectfulness and being there in times of need – to be much more important. — Athena Aktipis, The Conversation, 10 Oct. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for respectfulness
  1. deference
  2. humility
  3. submissiveness
  4. meekness
  5. modesty
Noun
  • For journalists, practicing deference and yielding authority are necessary steps when repairing relationships in communities that have experienced historical harm.
    — Danielle K. Brown, The Conversation, 20 Aug. 2026
  • The president, himself a billionaire, has described his inclination toward appointing the ultrawealthy as deference to financial success.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 17 Aug. 2026
Definition of deference
Noun
  • Parton was known not only for her positive attitude, but also for her humility, often shying away from taking credit for her success.
    — Meghan Overdeep, Southern Living, 26 Aug. 2026
  • Her basic goodness, her humility, her generosity of spirit, were inspirational.
    — Hannah Dailey, Billboard, 25 Aug. 2026
Definition of humility
Noun
  • Attraction is a function of parentage and looks and submissiveness.
    — Amanda Whiting, Vulture, 6 May 2026
  • But for Coles, his indoctrination to law enforcement has been a different level of submissiveness.
    — Dan Pompei, New York Times, 2 Dec. 2025
Definition of submissiveness
Noun
  • The third revealed meekness as spiritual strength – the willingness to let God lead thought and action.
    — Liesl Ehmke, Christian Science Monitor, 7 Aug. 2026
  • And Jesus' answer is one takes it through meekness, peacemaking, humility, love, etc.
    — Jason DeRose, NPR, 26 May 2026
Definition of meekness
Noun
  • The relentless state media campaign on the issue often cites prayer leaders who insist the hijab is part of Iranian cultural identity and that women should observe modesty.
    — Tim Lister, CNN Money, 23 Aug. 2026
  • With quick feet, high IQ, and patience, Burkin carries a modesty that endears him to his teammates and coaches.
    — Ethan Hanson, Daily News, 19 Aug. 2026
Definition of modesty

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respectfully
respectfulness
respecting
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Cite this Entry

“Respectfulness.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/respectfulness. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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