Definitions

insolence

[in-suh-luhns] / ˈɪn sə ləns /

NOUN

boldness, disrespect

Synonyms

STRONG

abuse arrogance audacity brass brazenness cheek chutzpah contempt contemptuousness contumely effrontery gall guff hardihood impertinence impudence incivility insubordination lip offensiveness pertness presumption rudeness sass sauce

WEAK

back talk uncivility

Antonyms

STRONG

approval carefulness caution humility manners meekness modesty politeness respect shyness timidity

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.

David Gorski, who blogs at Respectful Insolence, suggests:

From Forbes • Aug. 7, 2015

“And you. You are to address me as Madam. I expect obedience at all times. Insolence will not be tolerated, not one bit. And you will curb your tendency to talk.”

From "Chains" by Laurie Halse Anderson

Captain, You're right; their Insolence is such As beats my Patience; cursed Miscreants!

From Ponteach The Savages of America by Moses, Montrose Jonas

However, so ridiculous is this mans Insolence, that he begins his Letter thus, I have been informed of the Calumnies that Sir W. T. hath caused to be printed against me.

From Reflections upon Two Pamphlets Lately Published One called, A Letter from Monsieur de Cros, concerning the Memoirs of Christendom, And the Other, An Answer to that Letter. by Anonymous

Insolence in the face of danger rallies the cowardly, and inspirits them to go on.

From Toilers of the Sea by Hugo, Victor

Vocabulary lists containing insolence

Chains

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Heart of Darkness

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Nothing But the Truth

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