respective

[ ri-spek-tiv ]

adjective

1. pertaining individually or severally to each of a number of persons, things, etc.; particular:

   I will now discuss the respective merits of the candidates.

   Synonyms: corresponding, individual, separate

   Antonyms: irrespective

respective

/ rɪˈspɛktɪv /

adjective

1. belonging or relating separately to each of several people or things; several

   we took our respective ways home

2. an archaic word for respectful

Derived Forms

• reˈspectiveness, noun

Other Words From

• re·spective·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of respective¹

First recorded in 1515–25; from Medieval Latin respectīvus, equivalent to Latin respect(us) ( respect ( def ) ) + -īvus -ive ( def )

Example Sentences

“Between the nostalgia and multigenerational appeal in terms of their respective core fan group, we were reaching as wide of an audience as possible,” Riegg said.

From Los Angeles Times

The 7-2 Eagles and 8-2 Bills lead their respective divisions.

From Los Angeles Times

Zilke and the two men each earned a commission that was a percentage of the amount laundered through their respective accounts, according to court documents.

From Los Angeles Times

Wade via the Dobbs decision, which led many states nationwide to restrict abortion access, many people who voted for him also voted to expand access to abortion in their respective states.

From Salon

Both can run and pass the ball with equal aplomb and are leaders for their respective teams.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• various