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

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 is further insulting to gestational carriers, genetic donors, and intended parents to suggest that the mutual creation of a child is somehow akin to the bondage of chattel slavery.

From Slate • May 13, 2026

He can’t manage to get through it without several outbursts insulting the judge, but the trial is the first time in “I Swear” when we see John and his advocates achieve a breakthrough in understanding.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 24, 2026

Lutnick told Congress the ban was "insulting and disrespectful to America."

From Barron's • Apr. 23, 2026

By the 17th and 18th centuries, hedge had become an insulting adjective:

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 21, 2026

But I wanted to be respectful and not say anything insulting.

From "Ida B" by Katherine Hannigan

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