The term “respect” comes from the Latin word “respectus,” which means “regard” or “consideration.” This is derived from the Latin roots “re-” meaning “back” or “again,” and “specere,” meaning “to look.”
1. Proto-Indo-European (PIE)
The PIE root “*spek-” means “to observe” or “to look.”
2. Latin
From the PIE root, the Latin word “respectus” developed, meaning “regard” or “consideration.” The verb “respicere” combines “re-” (back) and “specere” (to look), meaning “to look back at” or “to regard.”
3. Old French (c. 9th to 14th century CE)
The Latin term “respectus” evolved into Old French “respect,” meaning “consideration” or “regard.”
4. Middle English (c. 11th to 15th century CE)
The Old French “respect” was adopted into Middle English as “respect,” meaning “regard” or “esteem.”
5. Modern English (from 15th century CE to present)
The term “respect” evolved into its current form and pronunciation, retaining the meaning of “a feeling of deep admiration for someone or something elicited by their abilities, qualities, or achievements.”
Phonetic Evolution
Over time, the pronunciation of “respect” changed to its current form.
Usage Examples
- “He showed great respect for his elders.”
- “Another example of ‘respect’ in a sentence is ‘Mutual respect is essential in a healthy relationship.'”
Cultural or Historical Notes
The development of the word “respect” was significantly influenced by cultural values that emphasized admiration and consideration for others, contributing to its current meaning and usage.
The word “respect” reflects the act of looking back or regarding someone or something with admiration and esteem, emphasizing the importance of recognition and consideration in human interactions.