impudence

[ im-pyuh-duhns ]

noun

1. the quality or state of being impudent; effrontery; insolence.

   Synonyms: boldness, brazenness, rudeness, pertness, lip, face, brass, impertinence, gall, nerve, sauce, presumption

   Antonyms: courtesy

2. impudent conduct or language.
3. Obsolete. lack of modesty; shamelessness.

impudence

/ ˈɪmpjʊdəns /

noun

1. the quality of being impudent
2. an impudent act or statement

Word History and Origins

Origin of impudence¹

1350–1400; Middle English < Latin impudentia shamelessness. See impudent, -ence

Word History and Origins

Origin of impudence¹

C14: from Latin impudēns shameless, from im- (not) + pudēns modest; see pudency

Example Sentences

But the combination of the bloodshed in Gaza, Israel’s persistent settlement-building in defiance of U.S. policy, Netanyahu’s impudence and broader public acceptance of once-fringe skepticism about the special relationship helped sow the seeds of political change.

From Los Angeles Times

Dee Ahluwalia is well cast as Karim, with just the right blend of pretty-boy looks and callow impudence.

From New York Times

Plus, so much of the post-defenestration discourse around Santos assumes that his impudence, on its own, opens the door to his next act: Perhaps a reality TV series?

From Salon

It would never come into their heads to fabricate colossal untruths, and they would not believe others could have the impudence to distort the truth so infamously.

From Salon

WSU offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle made Smith pay for his impudence.

From Seattle Times