Synonyms

insulting

American

[in-suhl-ting] / ɪnˈsʌl tɪŋ /

adjective

giving or causing insult; characterized by affronting rudeness, insolence, etc.

Synonyms:

nasty, offensive, derogatory, abusive, discourteous, rude

Other Word Forms

insultingly adverb
uninsulting adjective

Etymology

Origin of insulting

First recorded in 1585–95; insult + -ing ²

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

It’s not my place or intent to warn Black people about racism, because that would be ludicrous and insulting, but I’ll warn the rest of us because in the end, authoritarianism targets everyone.

From Los Angeles Times

But true to his fashion, Mr. Kravitz managed to say it in a way that made it seem very insulting.

From Literature

Benzema reportedly received an offer from Michael Emenalo, sporting director of the Saudi league, which he considered "insulting" as it would amount to "playing for free", apart from his image rights, according to his entourage.

From Barron's

“I know you’re not insulting me,” I say, turning to face him.

From Literature

A Malian lawmaker has been jailed in neighbouring Ivory Coast for three years for insulting the 84-year-old Ivorian leader, who recently won a fourth term in office.

From BBC

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023