Insolence

/ˈɪnsələns/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The quality or condition of being insolent; rude and disrespectful behavior.

The student's insolence towards the teacher resulted in a detention.

An act or instance of insolence.

Her insolence in the meeting shocked everyone present.

A lack of respect or politeness; impudence.

His insolence was evident in the way he interrupted others.

An affront or a deliberate display of disrespect.

The insolence of his comments made it clear he did not value the opinions of others.

From Latin 'insolentia', meaning 'unaccustomed, rude or arrogant'.

speak with insolence

To talk disrespectfully or rudely to someone.

insolence of office

A term describing the behavior of someone in a position of authority who is disrespectful.

insolent

Showing a rude and arrogant lack of respect.

impudent

Not showing due respect for another person; impertinent.

Smart mouth

Don't be such a smart mouth, it's pure insolence.

Talking back

Her talking back to the principal was pure insolence.