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
  • The February filing expressly argued that men and biological women who identify as men can be treated differently under equal-protection principles and emphasized the large degree of deference courts traditionally give military judgments.
    — Kaelan Deese, The Washington Examiner, 22 July 2026
  • Career agency officials with relevant expertise make the final funding decisions, giving deference to the peer reviewers.
    — Felix V. Matos Rodriguez, New York Daily News, 17 July 2026
Definition of deference
Noun
  • Respect, humility, and recognition go a long way in finding a resolution.
    — Kate Wieczorek, Forbes.com, 22 July 2026
  • Other fans in the comments section shared their appreciation for Douglas’ respect and Watt’s humility.
    — Chiara Kim, PEOPLE, 20 July 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
  • And Jesus' answer is one takes it through meekness, peacemaking, humility, love, etc.
    — Jason DeRose, NPR, 26 May 2026
  • Such meekness is understandable from him.
    — Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 26 Feb. 2026
Definition of meekness
Noun
  • That means no social media accounts, personal possessions or handling money, and the practice of celibacy and modesty.
    — Deepa Bharath, Fortune, 17 July 2026
  • Let your natural modesty carry confidence, and speak with calm clarity.
    — Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 10 July 2026
Definition of modesty

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Cite this Entry

“Respectfulness.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/respectfulness. Accessed 25 Jul. 2026.

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