respective — English Dictionary

Adjective

1. Relating to particular persons or things, each to each; particular; own.

   Usage

   • not-comparable

   Examples

   They returned to their respective places of abode.

   Adam and Novikovas swapped long-range efforts, neither of which troubled the respective keepers.

   More examples (1)

   Hitachi and CAF have begun a staged return to work at their respective Newton Aycliffe and Newport factories, having reduced output following the COVID-19 outbreak.

2. Noticing with attention; careful; wary.

   Usage

   • not-comparable
   • Obsolete

   Examples

   More examples (1)

   c. 1559-1570, Edwin Sandys, letter to Bernard Gilpin But if you looke upon the estate of the church of England with a respective eye , you cannot with a good conscience refuse this charge imposed upon you

3. Looking toward; having reference to; relative, not absolute.

   Usage

   • not-comparable
   • Obsolete

   Examples

   the respective connections of society

4. Fitted to awaken respect.

   Usage

   • not-comparable
   • Obsolete

   Examples

   What should it be that he respects in her / But I can make respective in myself,

5. Rendering respect; respectful; regardful.

   Usage

   • not-comparable
   • Obsolete

   Examples

   With a respective shame, rose, took us by the hands.

   a. 1598, William Cecil, 1st Baron Burghley, instructions to his son Robert Cecil, when young With thy equals familiar, yet respective.

Adjective

1. considered individually

   Synonyms

   severalvarious

   Examples

   the respective club members

   specialists in their several fields

   More examples (1)

   the various reports all agreed