respective

adjective

re·​spec·​tive ri-ˈspek-tiv How to pronounce respective (audio)
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.
One of the best aspects of the NFL's traveling draft show, however, might be when ex-players make their respective former teams' selections and troll rivals (David Akers, anyone?). Jim Reineking, USA Today, 22 Apr. 2025 Negotiators from the European Union and the U.K. are in talks with U.S. officials to try to alleviate their respective 25% and 10% blanket tariffs, while also grappling with broader tariffs on steel, aluminum and autos. Jenni Reid,sam Meredith, CNBC, 22 Apr. 2025 That two of the most recognizable names in UK sport, both Knights of the Realm, both hugely successful in their respective fields, have gone their separate sporting ways has unsurprisingly been of interest to those outside the world of sailing. Andrew Rice, New York Times, 22 Apr. 2025 From visiting Chinatown in your respective city or checking out a neighboring city’s festival with traditional music and dishes, get creative. Kiara Byrd, Essence, 21 Apr. 2025 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 30 Apr. 2025.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on respective

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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