disrespectful
Americanadjective
Other Word Forms
- disrespectfully adverb
- disrespectfulness noun
Etymology
Origin of disrespectful
First recorded in 1670–80; dis- 1 + respectful
Explanation
Disrespectful words and actions are rude and show a lack of respect. If you want to "dis" someone, be disrespectful towards them. You probably know that respectful things show consideration, kindness, and appreciation. Disrespectful things do the opposite. Swearing at your grandmother is disrespectful. Burping loudly in church is disrespectful. For a business to ignore a religious holiday could be considered disrespectful. This is a word with a lot of grey area: what is disrespectful to one person may be just fine to another. Disrespectful behavior can range from blatant rudeness to just not acting impressed or awed by something others hold sacred.
Vocabulary lists containing disrespectful
"To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee, Chapters 7–11
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
"Most fans are really respectful and thankful of you doing it. They are never disrespectful until they don't get what they want."
From BBC • Mar. 23, 2026
“We are all affected when our loved ones sadly are forced to travel far from home to receive the appropriate treatment. It is disrespectful to use this against us,” she said.
From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 24, 2026
The Belgian stopper said he disagreed with Benfica coach Jose Mourinho's words after the game, with the veteran Portuguese manager attacking Vinicius for what he deemed a disrespectful celebration.
From Barron's • Feb. 24, 2026
Fairlie told MSPs it was "inappropriate and disrespectful" to talk about Rollinson, and said he could not give any guarantees relating to his case.
From BBC • Feb. 17, 2026
He’d already asked for space....Would he think I was being disrespectful of his wishes?
From "From Twinkle, with Love" by Sandhya Menon
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
