insolent

/ˈɪnsə.lənt/adjective

Rude and disrespectful in words or behavior.

Example sentences

“His insolent reply earned him a detention.”
“The insolent waiter rolled his eyes when we asked for the bill.”

Typically describes juniors defying seniors: an insolent student, an insolent reply. 'Rude' has no such hierarchy built in.

Synonyms for insolent

impudent
impertinent
rude
disrespectful
cheeky

Antonyms

respectful
polite
courteous

Often confused with insolent

insolent vs indolent: indolent (adjective): Avoiding work or effort by nature; habitually lazy.

Find it in: Advanced English words, Words to describe a person.

Related words

defiantOpenly and boldly refusing to obey or back down.ineptLacking skill or ability; clumsy or incompetent at something.irascibleQuick to lose one's temper; easily made angry.irresoluteUnable to make up one's mind; hesitant about what to do.jadedTired, bored, or no longer excited because you have had too much of something.impetuousActing suddenly on impulse and with force, without thinking things through.