insolent

/ˈɪnsə.lənt/

Group 26Difficulty 1/3

Definition

(adjective)
Showing a rude and arrogant lack of respect
GRE

Example in Context

The student's insolent response to the teacher's reasonable request earned him an immediate referral to the principal's office.

Synonyms

disrespectfulrudeinsubordinate

Etymology

A display of rudeness that surpasses normal behavior.

  • insolens (Latin) — disrespectful

Memory Aid

😈Sounds like “in soul lent

Imagine a devilishly INSOULENT kid who borrows your favorite toy and returns it broken — how rude!

Visual Association

👿A child rolling their eyes and sticking their tongue out at an adult, filled with arrogance.

Semantic Clusters

Synonym Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “insolent” mean on the GRE?

insolent (adjective) means “Showing a rude and arrogant lack of respect”. The student's insolent response to the teacher's reasonable request earned him an immediate referral to the principal's office.

How to remember “insolent” for the GRE?

Mnemonic: “insolent” sounds like “in soul lent”. Imagine a devilishly INSOULENT kid who borrows your favorite toy and returns it broken — how rude!

What are synonyms for “insolent”?

Common synonyms: disrespectful, rude, insubordinate.