insolence
IN-suh-luns
/ˈɪnsələns/
Rude and disrespectful behavior.
Insolence specifically implies a lack of respect toward someone in authority (like a student to a teacher or a soldier to an officer).
The story behind the word. In Latin, 'insolens' meant 'unusual' or 'contrary to custom.' It describes someone who acts outside the 'customary' bounds of polite behavior, especially by being arrogant.
Word relationships
- impudence: Impudence is bold, shameless rudeness; insolence is specifically disrespectful toward authority.
- audacity: Audacity is boldness that can be positive or negative; insolence is always negative.
- deference: Deference is humble submission and respect.
- servility: Servility is an excessive willingness to serve or please others.
Commonly confused with
- indolence: Indolence is laziness; insolence is rudeness.
Word family
- insolent (adjective): showing a rude and arrogant lack of respect
Collocations
- sheer insolence
- punished for insolence
- unparalleled insolence
Example sentences
- "The teacher would not tolerate the student's insolence and sent him to the principal." A classroom setting.
- ""Your insolence will be your undoing, Captain," the General hissed." A historical drama.
Memory hook
An INSOLENT person is IN-SOLO—they act like they are the only one who matters, ignoring the rules. Authority-defying rudeness.
When not to use
Do not use for general rudeness between equals; use 'impertinence' or just 'rudeness.'
Fun facts
- In ancient Rome, 'insolens' could also mean 'extravagant' because it was 'unusual' behavior.
Related words
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