respectable Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. adjective characterized by socially or conventionally acceptable morals
    • a respectable woman
  2. adjective satellite deserving of esteem and respect
    honorable; good; estimable.
    • all respectable companies give guarantees
    • ruined the family's good name
  3. adjective satellite large in amount or extent or degree
    sizeable; healthy; hefty; tidy; sizable; goodly; goodish.
    • it cost a considerable amount
    • a goodly amount
    • received a hefty bonus
    • a respectable sum
    • a tidy sum of money
    • a sizable fortune

WordNet

Re*spect"a*ble adjective
Etymology
F. respectable, LL. respectabilis.
Definitions
  1. Worthy of respect; fitted to awaken esteem; deserving regard; hence, of good repute; not mean; as, a respectable citizen. "The respectable quarter of Sicca." J. H. Newman.
    No government, any more than an individual, will long be respected, without being truly respectable. Madison.
  2. Moderate in degree of excellence or in number; as, a respectable performance; a respectable audience. --Re*spect"a*ble*ness,n. -- Re*spect"a*bly, adv.

Webster 1913