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

After years of transformation, healing, and creative rebirth, Kesha is stepping into a new era — one defined by radical self-expression, spiritual resilience, and rebellious joy. —Gil Kaufman, Billboard, 23 Mar. 2026

After years of transformation, healing, and creative rebirth, Kesha is stepping into a new era—one defined by radical self-expression, spiritual resilience, and rebellious joy. —Jim Harrington, Mercury News, 23 Mar. 2026

As the longtime partners wrestle with their dark pasts and present conspiracies, Chris’ newfound bond with a pair of rebellious students (Mariana di Girolamo and Ailín Salas) threatens to send everyone’s trip to the remote paradise sideways. —Patrick Hipes, Deadline, 19 Mar. 2026

Thoughtful and easygoing offstage, Peaches’ seemingly rebellious onstage shenanigans are hardly a reaction to her upbringing. —Katherine Turman, Los Angeles Times, 19 Mar. 2026

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