Insolent

usgb/ˈɪnsələnt/
adjective

Showing a rude and disrespectful lack of respect.

He responded to the teacher's question with an insolent reply.
Visual representation of "insolent" - Showing a rude and disrespectful lack of respect

Often appears as...

  • insolent behavior
  • insolent reply

Usage tips

Disapproving

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "insolent"
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Negative Emotion

Insolent often conveys strong disdain or contempt for authority or norms.

Illustration for Negative Emotion
His insolent tone made it clear he didn't care about the rules.
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Cultural Variance

What's considered insolent can vary by culture; study local manners to understand limits.

Illustration for Cultural Variance
While slouching is casual in one country, it might be seen as insolent in another.
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Non-Verbal Cues

Insolence can be shown through body language, not just words.

Illustration for Non-Verbal Cues
Rolling her eyes at the request, she exhibited insolent behavior without a word.
Word comparison image

Compare with

audaciousbrazencheekydiscourteousdisrespectfulimpudentpertinentrudesaucy
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Visual representation of the word "Insolent"

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