respective
adjective
re·spec·tive
ri-ˈspek-tiv 
1
: particular, separate
their respective homes
2
obsolete
: partial, discriminative
respectiveness
noun
Examples of respective in a Sentence
it was late when the concert let out, so we all went our respective ways
Recent Examples on the Web
Authors Octavia Grant, Wanda M. Morris, and Ian K. Smith divulged details surrounding their respective books and provided insights on their ability to captivate their fanbases.
Smith who is known for his thrillers shared that the city of Chicago is a large inspiration for his novels.
—
Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 6 July 2024
In the Antelope Valley, Palmdale and Lancaster could see their respective heat records of 113 and 115 degrees broken on Saturday, when they’re each forecasted to reach 116 degrees.
—Salvador Hernandez, Los Angeles Times, 5 July 2024
In states like Wisconsin where races are won by the thinnest of margins, Biden and Trump are not only fighting over swing voters, but also working to energize their respective bases.
—Hannah Knowles, Washington Post, 5 July 2024
The interior has some pockets as well, plus straps and zippers to keep items on their respective sides during travel.
—Anne Taylor, Travel + Leisure, 4 July 2024
See all Example Sentences for respective 
Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 6 July 2024
In the Antelope Valley, Palmdale and Lancaster could see their respective heat records of 113 and 115 degrees broken on Saturday, when they’re each forecasted to reach 116 degrees.
—Salvador Hernandez, Los Angeles Times, 5 July 2024
In states like Wisconsin where races are won by the thinnest of margins, Biden and Trump are not only fighting over swing voters, but also working to energize their respective bases.
—Hannah Knowles, Washington Post, 5 July 2024
The interior has some pockets as well, plus straps and zippers to keep items on their respective sides during travel.
—Anne Taylor, Travel + Leisure, 4 July 2024
See all Example Sentences for respective
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'respective.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near respective
Cite this Entry
“Respective.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/respective. Accessed 15 Jul. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
respective
adjective
re·spec·tive
ri-ˈspek-tiv
: not the same or shared : separate
they hurried to their respective homes
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share