insolence

[ in-suh-luhns ]

noun

1. contemptuously rude or impertinent behavior or speech.
2. the quality or condition of being insolent.

Other Words From

• over·inso·lence noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of insolence¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English word from Latin word insolentia. See insolent, -ence

Example Sentences

Moscow accused Pashinyan of behaviour bordering on insolence, and on Friday summoned Armenia's ambassador to protest against "hostile steps".

From Reuters

That was also evident in “the insolence and indifference that you are displaying here,” the judge added, according to another local news source.

From New York Times

In a league that has absorbed the competitive nastiness of Bill Laimbeer and Ron Artest and John Stockton and Charles Oakley, Green may be the first player sent home for repeated insolence.

From Washington Post

Still, the infusion of black leather did what it always does: It reminded us what this particular material can always be counted on to suggest — insolence, light contempt, more than a little bit of attitude.

From Washington Post

For one second, I think my insolence is going to make this policeman smile.

From Literature