1. to acknowledge and comply with the power, command, or influence of those in positions of leadership or control
Children must respect authority in the classroom to maintain order.
As crianças devem respeitar a autoridade na sala de aula para manter a ordem.
2. to show deference to legitimate power structures and those who enforce rules
Good citizens respect authority and follow the law.
Bons cidadãos respeitam a autoridade e seguem a lei.