respective

[ri-spek-tiv]

adjective

1. pertaining individually or severally to each of a number of persons, things, etc.; particular.

   I will now discuss the respective merits of the candidates.

   Synonyms: corresponding, individual, separate
   Antonyms: irrespective

respective

/ rɪˈspɛktɪv /

adjective

1. belonging or relating separately to each of several people or things; several

   we took our respective ways home

2. an archaic word for respectful

Other Word Forms

• respectiveness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of respective¹

First recorded in 1515–25; from Medieval Latin respectīvus, equivalent to Latin respect(us) ( respect ( def. ) ) + -īvus -ive ( def. )

Example Sentences

It’s those small gestures during their hangouts — like Dennis refraining from correcting Roman’s misuse of idioms — that forge a special if imbalanced dynamic as they try to fill their respective voids.

From Los Angeles Times

The remaining defendants' lawyers will then take their turns to speak on behalf of their respective clients, all of whom have denied the charges against them.

From BBC

One of City's centre-backs ends up having to defend on the flank in an area they are less comfortable with, making them more likely to lose their respective duel.

From BBC

Their supporters enraged, their respective boards under siege, it's hard to remember a time when both clubs were in such a grim place at the same time.

From BBC

Opponents can therefore press United players in their respective zones in a predictable manner.

From BBC

Related Words

• various