What “Respect” means
Respect is used on its own as a greeting, a thank-you, a goodbye or a sign that you acknowledge someone. Saying "Respect!" to someone tells them you rate them and appreciate what they've done.
Examples
Respect, boss! Monday mawnin mi deh yah bright an early.
Respect, boss! Monday morning I'll be here bright and early.
Respect, Bigga! Everyting did irie.
Respect, Bigga! Everything was great.
How to use it
Common in everyday talk, especially among men, and fine with strangers as well as friends. "Nuff respect" and "big respect" make it stronger.
Cultural context
Respect, especially for elders, is a core value in Jamaican culture, which is part of why the word carries so much weight as a greeting.