What does obstreperous mean?
The word obstreperous refers to a person or situation that is difficult to manage or control, stubbornly resistant to authority or guidance. This adjective can be used to describe children, crowds, or even animals that refuse to listen or obey. In informal contexts, obstreperous can imply a sense of playful or mischievous resistance, while in formal contexts it tends to convey a more negative connotation. The word has Latin roots, derived from the verb obstrepere, which means to resist or oppose. Obstreperous is often used in contrast to words that imply compliance or obedience, such as compliant or obedient. It is a useful word for describing situations where authority is being challenged or resisted, and it can add nuance and depth to one's language.
adjectiveDifficult to manage or control, stubbornly resistant to authority or guidance.
- Difficult to manage or control, stubbornly resistant to authority or guidance.
"The obstreperous child refused to listen to his parents."
"The obstreperous child refused to listen to his parents."
"The obstreperous crowd made it difficult for the police to maintain order."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of obstreperous
The word obstreperous has its roots in the Latin verb obstrepere, which means to resist or oppose. This verb is derived from the prefix ob- and the verb strepere, which means to stir or move. The word obstreperous entered the English language in the 15th century and has been used to describe situations where authority is being challenged or resisted ever since. It is often used in contrast to words that imply compliance or obedience, such as compliant or obedient.
How obstreperous is actually used
In informal contexts, obstreperous can imply a sense of playful or mischievous resistance. In formal contexts, it tends to convey a more negative connotation.