insolence
noun
in·so·lence
ˈin(t)-s(ə-)lən(t)s 
1
: the quality or state of being insolent
2
: an instance of insolent conduct or treatment
Examples of insolence in a Sentence
amazed that parents would tolerate such insolence from their teenaged children
her frequent displays of insolence have lowered her standing among movie fans
Recent Examples on the Web
Egg’s plucky insolence belies his puny size, a comedic contrast with Claffey’s ex-rugby player physique, and perhaps his seemingly humble origins as well.
—
Alison Herman, Variety, 13 Jan. 2026
Failure to heed the MAGA campaign to redistribute respect is insolence punishable by death.
—David Frum, The Atlantic, 12 Jan. 2026
Here Are All The Companies Cutting DEI Programs For old school ‘proper football men’ seeing such insolence on the field is simply unacceptable and when he was asked about the incident on talkSPORT ex-Liverpool striker Dean Saunders didn’t hold back.
—Zak Garner-Purkis, Forbes, 27 Feb. 2025
As to the kids’ responses, the more genial Olmo is not above whining, while parental demands usually provoke flat-out insolence from Ana, who breathes cigarette smoke like dragon fire.
—Sheri Linden, The Hollywood Reporter, 17 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for insolence
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Alison Herman, Variety, 13 Jan. 2026
Failure to heed the MAGA campaign to redistribute respect is insolence punishable by death.
—David Frum, The Atlantic, 12 Jan. 2026
Here Are All The Companies Cutting DEI Programs For old school ‘proper football men’ seeing such insolence on the field is simply unacceptable and when he was asked about the incident on talkSPORT ex-Liverpool striker Dean Saunders didn’t hold back.
—Zak Garner-Purkis, Forbes, 27 Feb. 2025
As to the kids’ responses, the more genial Olmo is not above whining, while parental demands usually provoke flat-out insolence from Ana, who breathes cigarette smoke like dragon fire.
—Sheri Linden, The Hollywood Reporter, 17 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for insolence
Cite this Entry
“Insolence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/insolence. Accessed 16 Jan. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
insolence
noun
in·so·lence
ˈin(t)-s(ə-)lən(t)s
1
: the quality or state of being insolent
2
: an instance of insolent conduct or treatment
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