respected
UK[rɪˈspɛktɪd]US[rɪˈspɛktɪd]
adj
Admired by many people because of your qualities, achievements, or status.
adj
Considered to be important, good, or acceptable.
Morpheme Breakdown
re
spect
ed
re
again
spect
look
ed
adjective suffix
Etymology
The word "respected" originates from the Latin verb respicere, meaning "to look back at, regard, or consider," which is itself composed of re- ("back") and specere ("to look"). This literal sense of looking back evolved metaphorically into the concept of holding someone in esteem or giving them consideration. The past participle form "-ed" was added in English, transforming the verb into an adjective that describes the state of being regarded with honor and admiration. Thus, the modern abstract meaning of being held in high regard stems from the ancient idea of repeatedly or attentively looking upon someone with favor.
Analysis
Structure: re (again) + spect (look) + ed (adjective suffix)
- re: Latin origin, a prefix meaning "again" or "back".
- spect: Latin origin, from the root specere meaning "to look at" or "to observe".
- ed: Old English origin, a suffix used to form adjectives from verbs or nouns, indicating a state or condition.
Examples
He is a highly respected professor in his field.
It is a respected tradition in our community.
She comes from a respected family with a long history.