dis·re·spect
ˌdis-ri-ˈspekt 
disrespected; disrespecting; disrespects
1
: to lack special regard or respect for : to have disrespect (see disrespect entry 2) for
disrespects authority
: low regard or esteem for someone or something : lack of respect
treating a teacher with disrespect
meant no disrespect to you
disrespectfulness
noun
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
Chris Vannini, New York Times, 21 May 2025
The trauma of being constantly blamed, ignored, disrespected, or made to question your own worth is just as life-altering.
—Shayla Brown, Essence, 19 May 2025
Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 13 May 2025
Our child's protest isn't a sign of disrespect or defiance.
—Elisabeth Sherman, Parents, 29 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for disrespect
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Verb
Makes no sense but Dabo being disrespected isn't new either.
—Chris Vannini, New York Times, 21 May 2025
The trauma of being constantly blamed, ignored, disrespected, or made to question your own worth is just as life-altering.
—Shayla Brown, Essence, 19 May 2025
Noun
Recognizing when jokes mask disrespect is not about becoming overly cautious or humorless, but about ensuring that laughter contributes to connection, rather than corrosion.
—Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 13 May 2025
Our child's protest isn't a sign of disrespect or defiance.
—Elisabeth Sherman, Parents, 29 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for disrespect
Cite this Entry
“Disrespect.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/disrespect. Accessed 27 May. 2025.
Copy CitationKids 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
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