Tiszteld

Tiszteld is a Hungarian verb form that means “honor” or “respect” and is used as the second-person singular imperative of the verb tisztelni (to respect, to honor). It is employed to give a direct command or exhortation to someone to show respect toward a person, a group, an institution, or a principle.

In usage, tiszteld is commonly followed by a direct object, often in the accusative: tiszteld anyádat (honor your mother), tiszteld az időseket (respect the elderly). The phrase can also appear with meg for added emphasis, as in tiszteld meg az összetartozást, or similar constructions in everyday speech and formal writing. The imperative tone ranges from straightforward instruction to morally charged exhortation, depending on context and intonation.

Etymologically, tisztelni originates from the Hungarian root associated with tisztelet, meaning respect or reverence. The form tiszteld reflects the standard te-imperative used when addressing a single listener directly and giving a practical or ethical instruction.

Related terms include tisztelet (respect, reverence) and tisztelettel (with respect) as noun and adverbial forms, as well as the broader family of verbs built on the same root to express esteem, reverence, or honor. In cultural contexts, the command to “tiszteld” frequently appears in proverbs, social etiquette guidance, and educational or parental guidance emphasizing respect as a social value.