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Definition of respective

respective

/rɪˈspɛktɪv/
re · spec · tive
Adverb:respectively
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respective Lexical Profile

respective Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Belonging or relating separately to each of two or more people or things previously mentioned.

Example

"After the conference ended, the delegates returned to their respective countries."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for respective
Antonyms
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Word Nuance & Usage

"Respective" is used only attributively (before a plural noun) to assign things individually to previously mentioned people or items, and should not be confused with "respectful" (showing politeness or deference) or "respectable" (worthy of esteem).

• Rhymes for respective

• Nearby Words

respectfully
respectfulness
respecting
respective
respectively
respectworthy
respell

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 15th century from Medieval Latin respectivus, derived from Latin respectus, the past participle of respicere, meaning "to look back at" or "to regard."

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Respective. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/respective
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