The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

indignant

IPA:

Dictionary definition of indignant

Anger or resentment towards something that is perceived as unjust or unfair.
"He was indignant at the lack of support from his friends."

Detailed meaning of indignant

It is often used to describe a person who is outraged or offended by a particular situation or action. Indignant people may express their feelings through verbal or nonverbal cues such as raised voices, clenched fists, or furrowed brows. They may also take action to rectify the situation that has caused their indignation. Indignant can also be used to describe a tone or manner in which a person speaks, such as an indignant tone, which suggests anger and annoyance. Indignation is a strong emotion and is usually reserved for situations where a person feels that their rights, values, or beliefs have been violated.

Example sentences containing indignant

1. He was indignant at the false accusations leveled against him.
2. Her indignant response to the criticism surprised everyone.
3. His indignant tone hinted at the injustice he felt.
4. The indignant crowd protested against the new law.
5. She gave an indignant sigh when he interrupted her again.
6. He was indignant that his contributions had been overlooked.

History and etymology of indignant

The adjective 'indignant' has its origins in the Latin word 'indignari,' which means 'to consider as unworthy' or 'to be displeased or offended.' This Latin term, in turn, comes from 'in-' (meaning 'not' or 'un-') and 'dignus' (meaning 'worthy'). When someone is described as 'indignant,' it means they are experiencing a strong sense of anger or resentment towards something they perceive as unjust, unfair, or beneath their sense of worthiness. This feeling of indignation often arises in response to perceived mistreatment, moral wrongdoing, or a violation of one's sense of fairness and dignity.

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Further usage examples of indignant

1. The child's indignant protest over bedtime was met with a stern look from his mother.
2. The council was indignant over the mayor's misuse of city funds.
3. His indignant refusal to comply surprised the officers.
4. The students were indignant about the changes to the school's curriculum.
5. She was indignant about the unfair treatment she received.
6. The workers became indignant when their demands were ignored.
7. Her indignant comments during the meeting shocked everyone.
8. The artist was indignant when his work was criticized.
9. The public was indignant at the news of the scandal.
10. He was indignant at the lack of respect shown to him.
11. The indignant citizen wrote a letter to the local newspaper.
12. She was indignant at being overlooked for the promotion.
13. His indignant rebuttal caught the attention of the crowd.
14. The indignant look on her face told me she had not appreciated the joke.