disrespect

1 of 2

verb

dis·​re·​spect ˌdis-ri-ˈspekt 

disrespected; disrespecting; disrespects

transitive verb

1

: to lack special regard or respect for : to have disrespect (see disrespect entry 2) for

disrespects authority

2

: to show or express disrespect or contempt for : insult, dis

disrespected the officer

disrespect

2 of 2

noun

: low regard or esteem for someone or something : lack of respect

treating a teacher with disrespect

meant no disrespect to you

disrespectful

ˌdis-ri-ˈspekt-fəl 

adjective

disrespectfully

ˌdis-ri-ˈspekt-fə-lē 

adverb

disrespectfulness noun

Synonyms

Verb

• affront
• dis [slang]
• diss
• insult
• offend
• outrage
• slap
• slight
• wound

Noun

• dis [slang]
• diss
• discourteousness
• discourtesy
• disrespectfulness
• impertinence
• impertinency
• impoliteness
• impudence
• incivility
• inconsiderateness
• inconsideration
• insolence
• rudeness
• ungraciousness

Examples of disrespect in a Sentence

Verb

a comedian who shuns jokes that disrespect people because of their appearance

the player once again disrespected fans by refusing to sign autographs

Noun

The student treated the teacher with disrespect.

I'm sorry. I meant no disrespect.

He showed a shocking disrespect for authority.

Recent Examples on the Web

Verb

Netizens on China's X-like social media platform Weibo accused him of disrespecting the armed forces. —Nina Turner, Newsweek, 31 Oct. 2024

Speaking of women Gary has disrespected, Chief Stew Daisy is back as well. —Emma Soren, Vulture, 8 Oct. 2024

Noun

Such disrespect is in danger of being normalized as banter. —Tim Ellis, Forbes, 2 Nov. 2024

Stuff your tote with root vegetables that won’t burst all over your car on the way home (no disrespect, tomatoes). —Editors Of Bon Appétit, Bon Appétit, 1 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

Verb

1614, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1621, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

disrespect

1 of 2 verb

dis·​re·​spect ˌdis-ri-ˈspekt 

1

: to have disrespect for

2

: to show or express disrespect or dislike for : insult

disrespect

2 of 2 noun

: lack of respect : discourtesy

disrespectful

-fəl 

adjective

disrespectfully

-fə-lē 

adverb

disrespectfulness noun