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

Their popularity stems from a combination of on-field history, cultural influence, and a passionate, rebellious fan base. —Ben Verbrugge, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Dec. 2025

The measure passed by one vote, 25-24, despite Netanyahu’s request to withdraw it, as rebellious right-wing lawmakers defied him. —Tal Shalev, CNN Money, 3 Dec. 2025

The film, which recently received a new release on 4K UHD, stars Jack Nicholson as Randle McMurphy, a rebellious man admitted to a mental institution. —Brendan Morrow, USA Today, 28 Nov. 2025

In McTaggart's opinion, the eyebrow-raising relationship was a result of both Kick's rebellious nature and a bit of post-war recklessness. —Meredith Kile, PEOPLE, 27 Nov. 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