respected

ADJECTIVE

esteemed

Synonyms

STRONGEST

admired appreciated beloved honored important

STRONG

valued

Frequently Asked Questions

What is another word for respected?

Terms that have much the same meaning as respected are well-respected and well-regarded (though both can be used to be even more positive). All of these words are used to describe a person who has a positive reputation. A respected member of a group like a team or business is often one who’s valued and appreciated. Esteemed can mean much the same thing as respected, but it’s even more positive. See the next section for other words that are also more positive than respected.

What is a stronger word than respected?

Calling someone respected is quite positive. However, there are some words that imply that people not only respect the person, but highly admire them. Words that capture this sense are admired and esteemed. Words that take this to an even higher level are celebrated, beloved, and revered. The word respected is sometimes contrasted with feared, as in There were many respected officers, and a few who were feared.

What is the opposite (antonym) of respected?

Some people are respected, and others… aren’t. Perhaps the most common (and polite) way of saying this is to simply say that someone is not well-respected or not well-regarded. Someone who is not respected is often someone who is disliked. Much stronger words include despised, detested, and hated. The word disrespected can be thought of as an opposite of respected, but the words are often used in different situations. Whereas respected is often a general description of how people feel about (or treat) a person, disrespected is typically used in specific instances, as in I felt really disrespected when you corrected me in front of everyone.

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.

Before Tuesday, correctional officers at each facility might have still respected the inmate’s rights out of fear that they could be sued for damages.

From Slate • Jun. 23, 2026

Motorsport Ireland and Donegal Motor Club said they "express their deepest sympathies to the family of the deceased" and asked that their privacy is respected.

From BBC • Jun. 20, 2026

Mr. Trump chose the respected Jay Clayton as his official pick, garnering widespread plaudits.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 18, 2026

“The San Francisco Giants are proud to support Pride Night and the LGBTQ+ community. Baseball should be a place where everyone feels welcome, respected, and valued,” the statement provided to numerous outlets reads.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 17, 2026

The once respected and honored Taliban became what they were fighting against, the oppressive warlords and dictators that had preceded them.

From "Shooting Kabul" by N. H. Senzai

respected

Frequently Asked Questions

Example Sentences

Related Words