backtalk

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Zuckerberg sometimes displays what might be described as a “whim of iron,” a common malady among kings, princes, admirals and other individuals accustomed to issuing orders and having them obeyed without backtalk.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 3, 2022

"Superintelligence" stars McCarthy as an ordinary woman whose TV, phone, and microwave start giving her snarky backtalk.

From Salon • Nov. 8, 2020

Beantown denizens put off readers with their Brahmin-like brains and their skillful backtalk: they ranked at No. 5 in the survey for both intelligence and rudeness.

From Time • Aug. 13, 2015

With a hawklike visage and a bellicose speaking style that makes every utterance sound like a poke in the chest, Bill Otis seems at first like a sharp-edged man who brooks no backtalk.

From Slate • Jul. 29, 2015

Truth is, I’m so nervous right now, I’d never backtalk again if it meant I’d get this job.

From "The Help" by Kathryn Stockett