Insolent

Pronunciation

• UK IPA: /ɪnˈsÉ™.lÉ™nt/
• US IPA: /ˈɪnsÉ™.lÉ™nt/

Origin

From Middle English, from Old French, from Latin insolens ("unaccustomed, unwanted, unusual, immoderate, excessive, arrogant, insolent"), from in- ("priv.") + solens, present participle of solere ("to be accustomed, to be wont").

Full definition of insolent

Adjective

1. Insulting in manner or words.
2. Rude.
• 1907, w, The Younger Set Chapter 6, “I don't mean all of your friends—only a small proportion—which, however, connects your circle with that deadly, idle, brainless bunch—the insolent chatterers at the opera, the gorged dowagers,...the chlorotic squatters on huge yachts, the speed-mad fugitives from the furies of ennui, the neurotic victims of mental cirrhosus, … !”
3. Cheeky.

Synonyms

• insulting: arrogant, bold, cocky, impudent
• rude: disrespectful, impertinent, insubordinate, offensive

Related terms

• insolence
• insolency
• insolently