Smooth-shaven respectabilities not a few one finds that are not good for much

Carlyle. respectable (rē-spek'ta-bl), a . [ respectable = Sp. res pet able = Pg. respeitavel = It. rispettabile , respectabilis , worthy of respect, respect are , respect: see respect .] 1. Capable of being respected; worthy of respect or esteem. In the great civil war, even the bad cause had been rendered respectable and amiable by the purity and elevation of mind which many of its friends displayed. Macaulay , Hallam's Const. Hist. She irritates my nerves, that dear and respectable Potts. W. E. Norris, Matrimony, xxvii. 2. Having an honest or good reputation; standing well with other people; reputable: as, born of poor but respectable parents.