Definitions

respectful

[ri-spekt-fuhl] / rɪˈspɛkt fəl /

ADJECTIVE

courteous, mannerly

Synonyms

STRONGEST

admiring appreciative civil considerate deferential gracious humble obedient polite reverent reverential self-effacing well-mannered

WEAK

courtly duteous dutiful obeisant recognizing regardful regarding solicitous submissive upholding venerating

Antonyms

STRONGEST

discourteous disobedient disrespectful impolite inconsiderate insolent mean rude unkind unmannerly unrefined

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“We’ve also always had a fairly respectful relationship with Republican leadership,” said Morgan.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 14, 2026

"Good neighborliness, respectful relations between nations, and strengthening our political, cultural and trade ties should always be a priority," Sanchez told AFP, adding that Peru-US relations "cannot be an exception."

From Barron's • Jun. 5, 2026

Responses were respectful but hoped she was kidding.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 4, 2026

“And we’re allowed to live in that. And our fans have been so respectful of that,” she said.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 4, 2026

We were taught in the training camp to be respectful of our hosts and help them with their work.

From "Across So Many Seas" by Ruth Behar

Vocabulary lists containing respectful

List 1

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Workshop 4, Part 2

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Positive and Uplifting Tones

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