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

Beef has long been on the menu for musicians as singers and songwriters have used their art to disrespect others since the rise of popular music. —James Powel, USA TODAY, 10 May 2024

Professional wrestler Ric Flair said on social media he was disrespected by staff and ended his post by telling his fans not to take their business to the establishment. —Alex Groth, Journal Sentinel, 7 May 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