Search Dictionary
Definition of insolent

insolent

/ˈɪn.sə.lənt/
in · so · lent
Adverb:insolently
JUMP TO:

insolent Lexical Profile

insolent Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Showing a rude and arrogant lack of respect, especially toward an elder or person in authority.

Example

"The teacher sent the student to the principal's office for his insolent remarks during the lecture."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for insolent
Antonyms
View all antonyms for insolent

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'insolent' (rude and disrespectful) with 'indolent' (lazy and avoiding exertion).

• Rhymes for insolent

• Nearby Words

insofar
insole
insolence
insolent
insolently
insoluble
insolvable

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 14th century from Latin 'insolens', literally meaning 'unaccustomed' or 'unusual', formed from 'in-' (not) and the present participle of 'solere' (to be accustomed), which gradually shifted in meaning to 'immoderate, arrogant, and disrespectful'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Insolent. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/insolent
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.