What does insolence mean?
Insolence is a formal noun meaning rude, disrespectful, or impertinent behavior, especially behavior that displays defiance toward someone in authority. The word often suggests not merely an unfortunate choice of words but a deliberate breach of expected courtesy or social convention. It can describe conduct generally, as in “her insolence shocked the assembled guests,” or an individual act, as in “the insult was greeted with insolence.” The term appears in contexts involving employees, children, visitors, and public officials, where it marks conduct considered especially inappropriate because of the person’s role or position. Although words such as rudeness and disrespect are more neutral and broad, insolence carries a stronger sense of presumption and affront. Understanding the word helps distinguish ordinary informality from conduct that openly disregards another person’s dignity or authority.
nounRude, disrespectful, or impertinent behavior, especially toward someone in authority. It can also refer to an instance of such behavior.
- Rude, disrespectful, or impertinent behavior, especially toward someone in authority.
- An instance of such behavior or a remark regarded as rude and presumptuous.
"The employee was asked to apologize for his insolence toward the supervisor."
"She was reprimanded for her insolence in questioning the committee's decision."
"His insolence was particularly striking because no one had expected such disrespect from a guest."
Usually used for separate acts or instances of rude or disrespectful behavior.
"The report documented several insolences committed during the meeting."
The word insolence comes from the same Latin root as insolent: both describe conduct that treats ordinary expectations of respect as though they do not apply.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does insolence come from?
Insolence entered Middle English through Old French insolence, which was borrowed from the Latin insolentia. The Latin word was derived from insolens, meaning unusual, excessive, or arrogant. Its deeper formation is commonly associated with the Latin prefix in- and solere, “to be accustomed,” giving the sense of behaving as though customary limits did not apply. The modern English noun retains the sense of conduct that is both excessive in manner and objectionable because of its disrespectfulness.
Related word forms
How insolence is actually used
Insolence is more formal than everyday alternatives such as cheekiness or cheek. It usually implies deliberate rudeness, presumption, or defiance, particularly toward a person or institution with authority.
Easily confused with insolence
Insolence is the behavior, while insolent is the adjective describing a person or remark that is rude and disrespectful.