I. ri-ˈspekt noun
Etymology: Middle English, from Latin respectus, literally, act of looking back, from respicere to look back, regard, from re- + specere to look — more at spy
Date: 14th century
1. : a relation or reference to a particular thing or situation
remarks having respect to an earlier plan
2. : an act of giving particular attention : consideration
3.
a. : high or special regard : esteem
b. : the quality or state of being esteemed
c. plural : expressions of respect or deference
paid our respect s
4. : particular , detail
a good plan in some respect s
•
- in respect of
- in respect to
- with respect to
II. transitive verb
Date: 1560
1.
a. : to consider worthy of high regard : esteem
b. : to refrain from interfering with
please respect their privacy
2. : to have reference to : concern
Synonyms: see regard
• re·spect·er noun