respectabel

Respectabel is a Dutch adjective meaning worthy of admiration or esteem; it is used to describe persons, conduct, or institutions that meet standards of propriety, decency, or social standing.

Etymology: It derives from the same root as the English "respectable," via Latin respectabilis and French influence; the Dutch form respectabel shares this lineage.

Usage: In Dutch, respectabel is formal and common in both written and spoken language; it can describe behavior, appearance, or a person’s standing. Related terms include gerespecteerd (esteemed) and eervol (honorable). The word can have a neutral or positive tone depending on context.

In English-language contexts, the standard form is "respectable"; "respectabel" is not commonly used except when quoting Dutch text or discussing linguistic crossovers. See also discussion of respectability and related concepts in cross-linguistic contexts.