disobedient

[ dis-uh-bee-dee-uhnt ]

adjective

1. neglecting or refusing to obey; not submitting; refractory.

   Synonyms: uncompliant, unsubmissive, rebellious, defiant, contumacious, insubordinate

   Antonyms: obedient

disobedient

/ ˌdɪsəˈbiːdɪənt /

adjective

1. not obedient; neglecting or refusing to obey

Derived Forms

• ˌdisoˈbediently, adverb

Other Words From

• diso·bedi·ent·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of disobedient¹

1400–50; late Middle English < Old French desobedient, equivalent to des- dis- ¹ + obedient obedient

Example Sentences

Many asylum superintendents thought restraints such as straightjackets “rarely…necessary among males,” yet it was standard for disobedient women to be constrained.

From Time

Disobedient Objects is at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London from July 26 to February 1, 2015.

From The Daily Beast

The archetype of the disobedient Cossack who will not stoop to intimidation remains an important part of Ukrainian identity.

From The Daily Beast

So, of course, ever-disobedient, the IOA opted to hold the elections two days after on Feb. 9.

From The Daily Beast

Disobedient businessmen, disloyal functionaries, and opposition activists—these are the “criminals” the Kremlin wishes to pursue.

From The Daily Beast

"You don't want to do your duty; that's what it is, you disobedient wench," said the minister sternly.

From Project Gutenberg

The law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient.

From Project Gutenberg

He procured lettres de cachet from the King, and shut up his disobedient and debauched son in various state-prisons.

From Project Gutenberg

To threaten a disobedient servant with the jambok—be he Hottentot, Fingo, or Caffre—is to bring him back to kneeling obeisance.

From Project Gutenberg

The Prophet's divinely commanded actions witnessed beforehand what should come upon the disobedient, rebellious nation.

From Project Gutenberg