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.

Mr. Sottile’s Johnny exudes a warm bonhomie, embracing Linda and Ned’s smoldering rebelliousness, but also showing sincere affection for Julia, whom Ms. Griggs makes likable despite her overweening ambition.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 19, 2026

But it was credited with introducing the basics of heavy metal, including the aggressive vocal wail, bass-heavy riffs, demonic subject matter and a general spirit of rebelliousness, according to former Times music critic Richard Cromelin.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 22, 2025

First, I noticed the degree of rebelliousness exuded by several of them.

From BBC • Jun. 1, 2024

“A Small Light” shows the humanity of each member of the group, from Anne’s rebelliousness to the needling of family members and the discomforts of life in hiding.

From Seattle Times • May 1, 2023

I dusted the powdery corpses of half a dozen dead butterflies off a cement bench and lay down on the quad under the moonlight for a while, contemplating my sisters and our rebelliousness.

From "Summer of the Mariposas" by Guadalupe García McCall