Esteemed
adj.thoughtful, kindformal
What it means
Held in high and favorable regard because of recognized worth or achievement.
Reach for it when honoring someone whose reputation commands genuine respect
The esteemed carpenter still teaches the introductory safety session each spring.
Choose between these
6- playful
when fame and public praise are relevant
not when A celebrated figure may be famous without being trusted or esteemed.
- everyday
well thought of
when positive reputation needs an unpretentious phrase
not when This is milder and too conversational for ceremonial recognition.
- warm
admired
when qualities inspire appreciative approval
not when Admiration can center glamour or skill without broader respect.
- professional
when reliable good standing should be stated plainly
not when Respect may be solid but less elevated than the honor conveyed by esteemed.
- formal
when achievement visibly sets someone apart
not when Distinction emphasizes accomplishment and status, not how warmly the person is regarded.
- literary
revered
when exceptional honor approaches veneration
not when Revered is far stronger and can erase legitimate criticism.
Said against
4- disrespected
- despised
- discredited
- scorned
It naturally appears in
3- highly esteemed
The highly esteemed judge was known for explaining every ruling clearly.
- esteemed colleague
Our esteemed colleague leaves behind a stronger and kinder laboratory.
- esteemed member
An esteemed member of the cooperative opened the annual meeting.
Where this comes from
- wiktionary, English adjective, adjective sense meaning highly regarded or respected opens in a new tab · retrieved 2026-07-26
The definition and the example on this page are written here. The dictionaries above ground which meaning is being described, not the wording.