Origin of the phrase ''Respect,man/bro. ''?

Solution 1:

The Green’s Dictionary of Slang suggests that the expression originated in the black communities and is from the ‘90s:

Respect:

(W.I./UK/US black teen) a phr. used to accord the subject the respect they have earned on the basis of earlier positive or praiseworthy actions; also used as a greeting.

  • 1991 [UK] Reeves & Mortimer Vic Reeves Big Night Out n.p.: Yo! Respect, Dennis!

  • 1997 [UK] C. Newland Scholar 46: Respec’ cuz, for that ironin’ lick.