What does impudence mean?
Impudence is a formal noun meaning rude, insolent, or disrespectful behavior, particularly conduct that brazenly defies propriety, convention, or authority. It can describe a general attitude, as in “the impudence of the remark,” or a single instance of such behavior, as in “He had the impudence to demand an apology.” The word generally carries a strongly negative connotation and suggests more than accidental discourtesy: it often implies defiance, presumption, or a willingness to disregard social boundaries. Although it appears in formal writing, literary criticism, and descriptions of confrontational behavior, impudence is also widely understood in everyday English. It is related to the adjective “impudent” and the adverb “impudently.” The word ultimately comes through Latin from the language of shame and modesty, reflecting its long-standing connection with conduct that dishonors a person, institution, or public sense of propriety.
nounInsolent or disrespectful behavior, especially behavior that openly defies propriety, authority, or social convention. It can also refer to an instance of such behavior.
- Rude, insolent, or disrespectful behavior, especially an action that is deliberately or brazenly inappropriate.
"She had the impudence to address the judges as though they were equals."
"The young man's impudence in interrupting the minister made the audience object."
"She stared at him with such impudence that he stepped back without another word."
The plural is used when referring to multiple instances of rude or insolent behavior, though the singular is far more common.
"The document catalogued the petty impudences of officeholders who ignored public criticism."
Impudence is more than ordinary rudeness: it names conduct that openly challenges propriety or authority.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does impudence come from?
Impudence entered English in the early 17th century from French and Latin forms related to Latin impudentia, meaning “shamelessness” or “insolence.” The Latin adjective impudens meant “shameless” or “impudent” and was formed from in-, meaning “not,” and pudere, “to be ashamed.” Related English forms include impudent, impudently, and the less common impudicous and impudicity, all reflecting the same Latin root of shame, honor, and decency.
Related word forms
How impudence is actually used
The noun is formal and literary in tone, though it is readily understood. It often conveys a stronger sense of deliberate defiance or shamelessness than ordinary words such as “rudeness,” and it may refer either to conduct or to a particular instance of disrespect.
Easily confused with impudence
“Impudence” is a noun meaning disrespectful behavior, whereas “impudent” is an adjective describing a person, remark, or action as insolent or disrespectful.