Respectability: meaning, definitions and examples

🎩

Add to dictionary

respectability

[rɪˌspɛktəˈbɪləti ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

social behavior

The quality of being respectable, of deserving respect from others. This includes traits such as honesty, integrity, and adherence to social norms.

Synonyms

dignity, honor, integrity.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
respectability	Use this word when describing the quality of being socially acceptable and reputable. Her sense of respectability was important for her position in the community The company strove to maintain its respectability despite financial challenges
dignity	This word is suitable when referring to a person's sense of self-respect or the quality of being worthy of respect, often in difficult situations. She handled the criticism with great dignity Despite the hardships, he maintained his dignity
integrity	This word is best used when describing someone who adheres to moral and ethical principles, and acts honestly and consistently. Her integrity made her a trusted leader It is important for an auditor to have the utmost integrity
honor	Use this word when talking about a person's sense of ethical conduct and recognition of them for their actions or character. He received a medal of honor for his bravery She served her country with honor and dedication

Examples of usage

He conducted himself with respectability at all times.
Her respectability in the community was unquestioned.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

appearance

The appearance or impression of being respectable or socially acceptable. It involves presenting oneself in a dignified and proper manner.

Synonyms

credibility, decorum, reputation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
respectability	Best used to describe the quality of being socially acceptable and admired. Often refers to a combination of moral integrity and proper behavior, usually in a professional or formal setting. Her respectability as a business leader was unquestionable They tried to maintain an air of respectability despite the scandal
decorum	Refers to propriety and good taste in conduct or appearance. Commonly used in contexts where formal behavior, manners, and etiquette are being discussed. He conducted himself with decorum at the formal dinner The decorum of the event was appreciated by all attendees
reputation	Describes the beliefs or opinions that are generally held about someone or something. Often used in contexts where long-term perceptions and societal views are involved, can be positive or negative. She has a reputation for being very reliable His reputation was damaged after the lawsuit
credibility	Used when referring to the quality of being trusted and believed in. Ideal for situations where trustworthiness and reliability are highlighted, such as in journalism, science, or personal trust. The scientist's credibility was bolstered by his many awards After the incident, his credibility came into question

Examples of usage

She maintained an air of respectability in her attire.
The company aimed to uphold a sense of respectability in their image.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'respectabilis', meaning 'worthy of consideration' or 'respectable'.
It was popularized in English during the 18th century as societies began to emphasize moral standards and social codes.

Sociology

Respectability can vary greatly between cultures, defining the behaviors and practices considered acceptable.
The concept plays a significant role in social class dynamics — what is respectable for one group might not be for another.

Psychology

People often seek respectability as a form of social validation, influencing their behaviors and choices in daily life.
The desire for respectability can lead to conformity, where individuals suppress their true selves to fit in.

Pop Culture

In literature and film, characters often struggle with the idea of respectability, facing dilemmas between personal desires and societal expectations.
You can find a popular theme of seeking respectability in various music genres, reflecting the pressures of society on individual identity.

History

In Victorian England, respectability was closely tied to social status and gender roles, dictating how men and women were expected to behave.
Movements advocating for social change often confronted the norms of respectability, questioning who gets to be deemed respectable.

Translations

Translations of the word "respectability" in other languages:

🇵🇹 respeitabilidade

🇮🇳 सम्मान्यता

🇩🇪 Achtbarkeit

🇮🇩 kehormatan

🇺🇦 повага

🇵🇱 szanowność

🇯🇵 尊敬

🇫🇷 respectabilité

🇪🇸 respetabilidad

🇹🇷 saygınlık

🇰🇷 존경

🇸🇦 احترام

🇨🇿 úctyhodnost

🇸🇰 ctihodnosť

🇨🇳 尊敬

🇸🇮 spoštljivost

🇮🇸 virðing

🇰🇿 құрмет

🇬🇪 პატივისცემა

🇦🇿 hörmət

🇲🇽 respetabilidad

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,119, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

...
14116 jaundice
14117 impervious
14118 conceivably
14119 respectability
14120 posing
14121 antiquities
14122 buoy
...