respective

adjective

re·​spec·​tive ri-ˈspek-tiv 

1

: particular, separate

their respective homes

2

obsolete : partial, discriminative

respectiveness noun

Synonyms of respective

• different
• separate

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

Host Andrew Catalon and on-course analyst Colt Knost, who are golf broadcasters for CBS Sports, will return in their respective on-air roles. — Dade Hayes, Deadline, 13 Oct. 2026

Two of Atlanta’s foundational pieces are at a crossroads in their respective futures with the Braves. — Chad Bishop, AJC.com, 13 Oct. 2026

Outside, a throng of revelers were waiting to navigate the same journey as Williams, McRae, and their respective entourages. — Dan Adler, Vanity Fair, 13 Oct. 2026

In an unexpected twist, Shue and Fiebig entered a relationship of their own following their respective splits. — Kevin Dolak, HollywoodReporter, 13 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for respective

• advective
• affective
• collective
• connective
• convective
• corrective
• defective
• detective
• directive
• effective
• elective
• infective

Kids Definition

respective

adjective

re·​spec·​tive ri-ˈspek-tiv 

: not the same or shared : separate

they hurried to their respective homes