respectful

adjective

re·​spect·​ful ri-ˈspekt-fəl How to pronounce respectful (audio)
Synonyms of respectfulnext
: marked by or showing respect or deference
respectfully adverb
respectfulness noun

Examples of respectful in a Sentence

the children were remarkably respectful while in the president's office
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.
Simply being present and respectful goes a long way. Rachel Chang, Travel + Leisure, 2 Apr. 2026 James Baldwin's insight emphasizes the necessity of confronting issues like prejudice and bullying, which require ongoing leadership action; in a video lesson, Kim Scott offers practical strategies to foster respectful team culture and effectively address harmful behaviors. Big Think, 1 Apr. 2026 All the kids are very respectful. Steve Henson, Los Angeles Times, 31 Mar. 2026 Visitors are quickly welcomed into this respectful rhythm, and that’s where Costa Rica’s transformative power begins. Meghan Palmer, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for respectful

Word History

First Known Use

1593, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of respectful was in 1593

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Respectful.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/respectful. Accessed 6 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

respectful

adjective
re·​spect·​ful ri-ˈspekt-fəl How to pronounce respectful (audio)
: marked by or showing respect
a respectful manner
respectful of others
respectfully adverb
respectfulness noun

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