Esteemed (9)
'esteemed' is the definition.
('respect' can be a synonym of 'esteem')
This is all the clue.
(Other definitions for respected that I've seen before include "Had a high regard for someone" , "Held in esteem" , "Held in high regard" , "Regarded highly" , "'Esteemed, showed deference to (9)'" .)
'esteemed' is the definition.
(thesaurus)
This is the entire clue.
(Other definitions for distinguished that I've seen before include "Uniquely recognised" , "Made out; noble" , "like a VIP" , "saw the difference" , "Differentiated; eminent" .)
(Other definitions for honoured that I've seen before include "Greatly respected" , "Highly respected" , "Conferred an award as a mark of respect" , "Conferred with laurels" , "Bestowed accolades or awards" .)