RESPECT'IVE, adjective

1. Relative; having relation to something else; not absolute; as the respective connections of society.

2. Particular; relating to a particular person or thing. Let each man retire to his respective place of abode. The officers were found in their respective quarters; they appeared at the head of their respective regiments. Let each give according to his respective proportion.

3. Worthy of respect. [Not in use.]

4. Careful; circumspect; cautious; attentive to consequences; as respective and wary men. [Not in use.]