# insolent

/ˈɪnsəɫənt/ (US) · /ˈɪnsələnt/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/insolent
Updated: 2026-05-28

## Definition

showing a rude and disrespectful attitude. You use this to describe someone who is being very impolite and thinks they are better than others.

For teachers: characterised by a disrespectful and arrogant attitude. Often used to describe a person's manner or speech that shows a lack of deference.

## Examples

- The waiter was very insolent to the customers.
- The manager was shocked by the insolent attitude of the new intern during the meeting.
- The protagonist's journey is defined by his transition from an insolent youth who defies all authority to a mature leader who earns respect through quiet competence.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.