insolence

American  

[in-suh-luhns] / ˈɪn sə ləns /

noun

1. contemptuously rude or impertinent behavior or speech.

2. the quality or condition of being insolent.

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Other Word Forms

• overinsolence
  noun

Etymology

Origin of insolence

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

Explanation

Insolence is a rude, disrespectful act. The teenager's insolence got her in trouble with her teachers. Insolence is an act of or the trait of being a jerk, especially to someone you should respect. Insolence is what rude and stuck-up people show off every chance they get. They ignore their parents, walk out on dinner bills, elbow old people out of the way, and tell professors their clothes look cheap. Insolence is a trait to get rid of, not flaunt. Teenagers often embrace insolence when they get to the age when they think their parents are stupid. (It usually wears off.)

Example Sentences

David Gorski, who blogs at Respectful Insolence, suggests:

From Forbes • Aug. 7, 2015

“And you. You are to address me as Madam. I expect obedience at all times. Insolence will not be tolerated, not one bit. And you will curb your tendency to talk.”

From "Chains" by Laurie Halse Anderson

From which some have said that the pedigree of Bacchus and of Insolence were the same.

From The Deipnosophists, or Banquet of the Learned of Athen?us by Athen?us

However, so ridiculous is this mans Insolence, that he begins his Letter thus, I have been informed of the Calumnies that Sir W. T. hath caused to be printed against me.

From Reflections upon Two Pamphlets Lately Published One called, A Letter from Monsieur de Cros, concerning the Memoirs of Christendom, And the Other, An Answer to that Letter. by Anonymous

Insolence is literally that which is against custom, i. e., the violation of customary respect and courtesy.

From English Synonyms and Antonyms With Notes on the Correct Use of Prepositions by Fernald, James Champlin