Rebel

/ˈrɛbəl/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A person who rises in opposition or armed resistance against an established government or ruler.
The rebels fought bravely against the oppressive regime.
A person who resists authority, control, or tradition.
As a teenager, she was always seen as a rebel, challenging the norms of her society.
verb
To resist or fight against an established government or ruler.
Many people choose to rebel against unjust laws.
To refuse to accept control or tradition.
He decided to rebel against his family's expectations and pursue his own dreams.

Etymology

Middle English: from Old French 'rebel', from Latin 'rebellis', from 'rebellare', meaning 'to rebel' (re- 'back' + bellare 'to wage war').

Common Phrases and Expressions

rebel against
to oppose or resist authority or control.
rebel without a cause
a person who is rebellious without a clear or legitimate reason.
the rebel spirit
an attitude characterized by nonconformity and the desire to challenge the status quo.

Related Words

rebellion
The act of resisting authority or control.
rebellious
Showing a desire to resist authority, control, or convention.
revolt
An act of violent or open resistance to an established government or ruler.

Slang Meanings

A cool or edgy person who goes against societal expectations.
She's such a rebel; she always wears what she wants.
A nonconforming individual within a group.
In our friend group, he's the rebel who never follows the usual plans.