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
Lovia Gyarkye, HollywoodReporter, 17 June 2025
Trump’s disregard and disrespect for our troops were also on display in Los Angeles.
—Tom Zirpoli, Baltimore Sun, 17 June 2025
Corey Masisak, Denver Post, 13 June 2025
No disrespect to the freezer aisle, but our favorite veggie burger ideas start with fresh ingredients—not prefab pucks.
—Emily Saladino, Bon Appetit Magazine, 3 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for disrespect
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Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
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Verb
In one early humorous scene, Bernadette forces Joshua to apologize to Sonny for disrespecting the older driver during a press conference.
—Lovia Gyarkye, HollywoodReporter, 17 June 2025
Trump’s disregard and disrespect for our troops were also on display in Los Angeles.
—Tom Zirpoli, Baltimore Sun, 17 June 2025
Noun
No disrespect to the Islanders, but skating alongside two of Artturi Lehkonen, Martin Necas, Nichushkin or a healthy Landeskog could be one of the best lines he’s ever played on.
—Corey Masisak, Denver Post, 13 June 2025
No disrespect to the freezer aisle, but our favorite veggie burger ideas start with fresh ingredients—not prefab pucks.
—Emily Saladino, Bon Appetit Magazine, 3 May 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 23 Jun. 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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