Meaning & Definition of word "Rebel"

Rebel

/ˈrɛbəl/

noun:

  • 1. A person who rises in opposition or armed resistance against an established government or ruler.
    • Example: The rebels fought bravely against the oppressive regime.
  • 2. A person who resists authority, control, or tradition.
    • Example: As a teenager, she was always seen as a rebel, challenging the norms of her society.

verb:

  • 1. To resist or fight against an established government or ruler.
    • Example: Many people choose to rebel against unjust laws.
  • 2. To refuse to accept control or tradition.
    • Example: 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 of rebel

Meaning: A cool or edgy person who goes against societal expectations.

Example Sentence: She's such a rebel; she always wears what she wants.

Meaning: A nonconforming individual within a group.

Example Sentence: In our friend group, he's the rebel who never follows the usual plans.