respectable
adj. · n.-
1 socially acceptable (adj.) B2 Upper Intermediatehaving a good reputation and following the rules of society.
conforming to socially acceptable standards of behaviour, appearance, or character.
ExampleHe wanted to find a respectable job so his parents would be proud of him.
ExampleThe family worked hard to maintain a respectable image in the small town, attending every local event and keeping their garden perfectly tidy.
- disreputable
- shameful
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2 satisfactory or large (adj.) B2 Upper Intermediategood enough or large enough to be accepted.
fairly good in quality or large in amount; satisfactory but not necessarily excellent.
ExampleThe team finished the season in a respectable third place.
ExampleDespite the economic downturn, the company reported a respectable profit that satisfied most of the major shareholders.
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3 well-to-do (adj.) C1 Advanced Formalhaving enough money to live a comfortable, middle-class life.
belonging to a social class that is financially secure and socially established.
ExampleThey lived in a respectable neighbourhood with large houses and quiet streets.
ExampleThe novel depicts the lives of respectable Victorian families who were terrified of losing their social standing through financial ruin.
- middle class
- prosperous
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4 a proper person (n.) C2 Proficiency Literary Archaica person who has a good reputation and follows social rules.
an individual who conforms to conventional social standards and possesses a good reputation.
ExampleIn the old days, the respectables of the town always sat in the front of the church.
ExampleThe local respectables were horrified when the young artist moved into the village and began hosting loud parties every weekend.
- conformist
From respect + -able.