rebellious

adjective

re·​bel·​lious ri-ˈbel-yəs How to pronounce rebellious (audio)
1
a
: given to or engaged in rebellion
rebellious troops
b
: of, relating to, or characteristic of a rebel or rebellion
a rebellious speech
2
: resisting treatment or management : refractory
rebelliously adverb
rebelliousness noun

Examples of rebellious in a Sentence

the rebellious troops fought a pitched battle with divisions still loyal to the government expected her son to grow a little more rebellious as he got older, but she knew he understood when to kick and when to obey
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
From director James DeMonaco, creator of The Purge franchise, actor-comedian Davidson plays Max in The Home, a rebellious twenty-something sentenced to community service at a quiet retirement home. Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 10 July 2025 The story follows rebellious young demigod Ne Zha, who wrestles with his powers and the threat of humanity’s destruction. Escher Walcott, People.com, 9 July 2025 Huishan Zhang: For me, Nan’s beauty truly embodies a natural sophistication that is paired with a rebellious spirit that is totally unapologetic yet so refined. Felicity Carter, Forbes.com, 8 July 2025 In a 1996 interview with Select Magazine, a section about their favourite records is interrupted by the sudden mention of Robin Friday, the heavy-drinking, rebellious centre-forward of the 1970s. Michael Cox, New York Times, 29 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for rebellious

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of rebellious was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Rebellious.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rebellious. Accessed 14 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

rebellious

adjective
re·​bel·​lious ri-ˈbel-yəs How to pronounce rebellious (audio)
1
: taking part in rebellion
2
: tending to fight against or disobey authority
rebelliously adverb
rebelliousness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on rebellious

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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