Rebellious

/rɪˈbɛljəs/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Showing a desire to resist authority, control, or convention.

The rebellious teenager often challenged his parents' rules.

Characterized by or expressing a desire to resist control or tradition.

Her rebellious spirit led her to pursue an unconventional career path.

Engaging in or inciting rebellion.

The government cracked down on the rebellious factions that threatened stability.

Having a tendency to reject or resist established rules.

The rebellious attitude of the student body led to major changes in school policy.

From Middle English 'rebellious', from Old French 'rebelle', from Latin 'rebellis' meaning 'waging war against' (rebellion).

rebellious spirit

A person who shows a strong unwillingness to obey rules or norms.

rebellious teenager

A young person who resists authority, often seen in parental conflicts.

rebellious act

An action intended to oppose established rules.

rebel

A person who resists authority, control, or tradition.

insurrection

An act of rising in revolt against civil authority or an established government.

defiance

Open resistance or bold disobedience.

Going against the grain.

He's always been one to go against the grain and stand up for what he believes in.

Rogue.

She's such a rogue; she's always plotting something against the school's rules.

Maverick.

As a maverick, he never followed the crowd and often challenged the status quo.