rebellious

adjective

re·​bel·​lious ri-ˈbel-yəs 

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

Synonyms of rebellious

• insurgent
• traitorous
• revolutionary

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

The beloved character is depicted here as a promising but rebellious Royal Navy air crewman who's recruited by MI6. —Nick Romano, Entertainment Weekly, 12 Dec. 2025

According to Billythewhale, founder of Esoteric Thing, the collaboration was a good fit due to its rebellious nature. —Denni Hu, Footwear News, 12 Dec. 2025

The girls are moved to rebellious action. —Literary Hub, 11 Dec. 2025

The playful cocktail menu—featuring boozy bobas and cheeky drinks like Over My Dad Body—adds to the restaurant’s spirited, rebellious charm. —Kat Stinson, Travel + Leisure, 11 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

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

Phrases Containing rebellious

• rebellious streak

Kids Definition

rebellious

adjective

re·​bel·​lious ri-ˈbel-yəs 

1

: taking part in rebellion

2

: tending to fight against or disobey authority

rebelliously adverb

rebelliousness noun