Disobey

/ˌdɪs.əˈbeɪ/

Meaning & Definition

verb

to refuse or fail to obey rules, laws, or commands.

The students were warned not to disobey the school rules.

to ignore or act contrary to the instructions given by an authority.

He chose to disobey the order from his commanding officer.

to be unfaithful to or disregard the expectations of someone.

She would never disobey her parents' wishes.

to violate a directive, guidance, or request.

They decided to disobey the speed limit on the highway.

to rebel against authority.

The citizens began to disobey the corrupt laws imposed by the regime.

The word 'disobey' comes from the prefix 'dis-' meaning 'not' and 'obey', derived from Latin 'obedire'.

disobey the rules

To not follow established guidelines.

disobey authority

To act against the commands of someone in power.

disobey orders

To not follow direct instructions from someone in charge.

obey

To follow the commands or guidance of someone.

defiance

Open resistance or bold disobedience.

rebellion

An act of violent or open resistance to an established government or ruler.

To blow off a command.

He totally blew off the curfew and stayed out late.

To give the middle finger to authority.

She gave the finger to the school rules and wore whatever she liked.