Worthy of respect and admiration; conforming to socially acceptable standards of behavior, appearance, or achievement.
From Latin respectus 'regard' or 'consideration', with the suffix -able meaning 'worthy of'. The word evolved through French into English, maintaining its sense of worthiness of regard.
The concept of 'respectability' has shifted dramatically over time - what was respectable in Victorian society (like covering piano legs for modesty) seems absurd today. The word captures how social standards are cultural constructs that societies use to define acceptable behavior!
Respectability has been weaponized against women, particularly poor and non-white women. 'Respectable woman' historically required conformity to sexual, dress, and behavioral codes that policed female bodies and autonomy.
Avoid 'respectable' when judging individuals, especially women. Use specific behavioral or professional criteria instead.
["credible","professional","qualified","trustworthy"]
Feminist scholars have critiqued 'respectability politics' as tool of oppression; women's value is not tied to meeting male-defined codes of propriety.
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