respective

adjective

re·​spec·​tive ri-ˈspek-tiv How to pronounce respective (audio)
Synonyms of respectivenext
1
: particular, separate
their respective homes
2
obsolete : partial, discriminative
respectiveness noun

Examples of respective in a Sentence

it was late when the concert let out, so we all went our respective ways
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.
With the segment’s stellar competition also adding to their respective standard equipment lists, the Pathfinder followed suit. James Raia, Mercury News, 18 May 2026 Introduced last year in partnership with Projeto Paradiso in a bid to fortify the presence of Brazilian cinema in the global arena, Screen Brasil selects three projects and their respective sales agents. Anna Marie De La Fuente, Variety, 18 May 2026 The two worked closely together during a long partnership in Green Bay earlier in their respective careers, including a Super Bowl victory over Pittsburgh after the 2010 season. ABC News, 18 May 2026 With Wharton’s recent surgery and Brooks’ injury history, the Panthers are likely to be cautious about thinning the roster at their respective positions. Mike Kaye, Charlotte Observer, 18 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for respective

Word History

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of respective was in 1597

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Cite this Entry

“Respective.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/respective. Accessed 21 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

respective

adjective
re·​spec·​tive ri-ˈspek-tiv How to pronounce respective (audio)
: not the same or shared : separate
they hurried to their respective homes

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