top of page
The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

insolence

IPA:

How to pronounce insolence (audio)

Dictionary definition of insolence

The quality or state of being rude, disrespectful, or contemptuous in behavior or speech.
"The crowd jeered at the politician's insolence during the debate."

Detailed meaning of insolence

It refers to a disrespectful or arrogant attitude, often displayed through bold or impudent words or actions, as well as a behavior that shows a lack of respect for authority or social norms.

Insolence is often associated with a sense of superiority or self-importance, and it can be directed towards others, such as authority figures, or it can be directed towards the general public. It is usually considered as an intentional act, rather than an unintentional one.

Insolence is considered as an offensive and unacceptable behavior, particularly in formal or professional settings. It is considered disrespectful and may be considered as a form of rudeness or impudence.

Example sentences containing insolence

1. His insolence toward the teacher resulted in detention.
2. She could not tolerate his constant insolence any longer.
3. The employee's insolence led to a warning from the boss.
4. The child's insolence toward his parents was concerning.
5. Her insolence in the meeting offended her colleagues.
6. The coach disciplined the player for his insolence.

History and etymology of insolence

The noun 'insolence' can be traced back to its Latin root, 'insolentia,' which is derived from 'in' (meaning 'not') and 'solens' (meaning 'accustomed' or 'used to'). In essence, 'insolence' originally denoted behavior that went against established customs or norms, often in a manner that was rude, disrespectful, or contemptuous. Over time, the term evolved to specifically connote a brazen and offensive lack of respect or politeness in one's behavior or speech. Thus, the etymology of 'insolence' highlights its historical connection to deviating from accepted standards and behaving in a manner that is openly disrespectful or contemptuous.

Quiz: Find the meaning of the noun insolence:

Try Again!

Correct!

Further usage examples of insolence

1. Insolence is not tolerated in this workplace.
2. The teacher addressed the student's insolence in class.
3. His insolence during the argument only escalated tensions.
4. The manager reprimanded the employee for her insolence.
5. The teenager's insolence toward authority figures was a concern.
6. Insolence can damage relationships in both personal and professional settings.
7. The coach's speech emphasized the importance of respect and no insolence.
8. The customer's insolence toward the waiter disrupted the restaurant.
9. The employee's insolence during the meeting was unprofessional.
10. Parents should address insolence in their children promptly.
11. The CEO won't tolerate insolence from anyone in the company.
12. The student's insolence disrupted the classroom atmosphere.
13. Insolence in the workplace can lead to termination.
14. Her insolence toward her elders was met with disapproval.
15. His insolence towards the teacher earned him a detention.
16. She couldn't tolerate the insolence of her employee's attitude.
17. The customer's insolence towards the waitstaff was unacceptable.
18. His insolence towards authority figures made him hard to work with.
19. The king would not stand for the insolence of his subjects.
20. The soldier was court-martialed for his insolence towards his commanding officer.
21. She had to remind her children to watch their insolence.
22. The employees were fired for their insolence towards the management.
23. The citizen’s insolence towards the law enforcement agents landed him in jail
24. The report was full of insolence and disrespect towards management.
25. The insolence of the opposition party was a clear indication of their lack of maturity.

Suffix -ence, Annoyance and Irritation, Attraction and Allure, Personality and Character Traits, Anguish and Despair, Vilification and Vitriol, Mockery and Insults

audacity,cheek,cockiness,contempt,effrontery,gall,impudence

disrespect, politeness, respect, courtesy

eb68db_7fed2ab907654ce69a2cb613391fc888.mp3

brazenness,cheekiness,disrespect,impertinence,impoliteness,incivility,irreverence,rudeness,sauciness

bottom of page