respective

1 of 2

adjective

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

respectiveness

2 of 2

noun

re·​spec·​tive·​ness
-tivnə̇s, 
-tēv- also -təv-
plural -es
: the quality or state of being respective

Synonyms of respective

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Adjective

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Examples of respective in a Sentence

Adjective 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.
Adjective
For example, liver cells, kidney cells, and their respective supporting tissues must sit in the right places for the organ to work properly. — Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 11 July 2026 The couple jumped into their respective cars while also trying to help a neighbor with two toddlers. — Sergio Rodrigo, Los Angeles Times, 11 July 2026 Two couture debuts This week’s two debuts highlighted the signature DNA of the creative directors behind their respective fashion houses. — Laure Guilbault, Vogue, 10 July 2026 But in taking a wide view, does the exhibition thereby dilute the ideological specificity of respective neo-fascist repression and aggression? — Ara H. Merjian, ARTnews.com, 10 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for respective

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1597, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of respective was in 1597

Rhymes for respective

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Browse Nearby Words

respecting
respective
respectively
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Cite this Entry

“Respective.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/respective. Accessed 13 Jul. 2026.

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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

Nglish: Translation of respective for Spanish Speakers

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