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Synonyms

insulting

American  
[in-suhl-ting] / ɪnˈsʌl tɪŋ /

adjective

  1. 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 would be insulting to make broad categorical claims about the Catholic church as a whole.

From Salon • Apr. 5, 2026

Research shows that advisers find it more insulting to be double-checked by a chatbot than by a human rival.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 21, 2026

“That feels insulting to a lot of people who are paying the taxes they owe every day.”

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 17, 2026

Travelodge initially offered the victim a £30 refund, which she described as "insulting", before the company issued an apology.

From BBC • Mar. 16, 2026

“You can’t even imagine how insulting that is.” she says.

From "We Were Liars" by E. Lockhart