What does the rectification of names mean to Confucians?

Confucianism is concerned with stability in society, as well as proper respect given to
every individual. To that end, they believe one of the ways in which to properly respect someone
is to give and call them the proper name. This applies to both names and titles, as a way of
ensuring everyone is aware of their place in society and is able to give each other necessary
respect and deference.

The rectification of names is the proper term for the
Confucian practice of assigning appropriate names and titles to individuals. This means calling
parents and children by their respective roles and titling teachers and officials with proper
titles so that they receive proper respect. Because this is such a priority in Confucianism,
rectification of names is one of the main ways they ensure respect is given.