To be disrespectful means to show a lack of respect for someone or something through your words, actions, or attitude. When you're disrespectful, you treat someone as if they don't deserve courtesy, consideration, or basic politeness.

Disrespectful behavior takes many forms. Talking back rudely to a teacher, interrupting someone constantly while they're speaking, or making fun of another student's ideas are all disrespectful acts. Rolling your eyes when your parent asks you to do something, ignoring someone when they're talking to you, or calling people names behind their backs all show disrespect.

The word captures more than just being rude in the moment. Being disrespectful suggests you're dismissing someone's worth or authority. When a player argues with every call a referee makes, that's disrespectful to both the official and the game itself. When someone defaces a memorial or monument, they're being disrespectful to what it represents.

Notice that you can be disrespectful without meaning to be. Texting during a conversation, not listening when someone shares something important, or forgetting to thank someone who helped you can all come across as disrespectful, even if you didn't intend any harm. That's why paying attention to how your behavior affects others matters. The opposite of disrespectful is respectful, showing consideration and honor for others.