respectable

Respectable means deserving of respect or admiration, either for moral character or for social standards. It can describe a person who behaves in a manner that society regards as proper and reliable, or a thing or situation that meets conventional expectations for decency or adequacy. For example, a respectable citizen is someone viewed as trustworthy and law‑abiding, while a respectable income or meal indicates a level that is sufficient or acceptable by common standards. The term often implies conformity to accepted norms rather than extraordinary merit, and it can carry a mild sense of social approval.

Etymology: respectable comes from respectabilis, meaning “worthy of respect,” via Old French respectable, and into English with senses related to merit and propriety.

Usage and nuance: respectable can carry a positive tone but may also suggest conventionalism or a lack of individuality. It is commonly used with nouns such as profession, family, upbringing, or conduct: a respectable profession, a respectable upbringing, respectable behavior. It is distinct from respectful, which means showing regard or deference rather than being worthy of it.

Synonyms include decent, reputable, honorable, and estimable; antonyms include disreputable, improper, and immoral. In historical and sociological contexts, “respectable” has been used to denote alignment with middle‑class norms and expectations, sometimes to distinguish those who conform from those who do not. See also respect and respectability.