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 print feels preppy, aspirational, and rebellious all at once. —Andrea Zendejas, Vogue, 22 May 2026

Quentin Bisch created both Cuir 1976, blending textured leather with the velvety softness of marron glacé, and Musc Terrible, which nods to the founder’s nickname and rebellious spirit by balancing an amber and spicy musk with powdery vanilla and top notes of cinnamon and pink pepper. —Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 20 May 2026

His struggle intensifies when Tare, a rebellious motorcyclist and fellow alcoholic, discovers the pastor’s secret and seeks to use the car for his own dream. —Christopher Vourlias, Variety, 19 May 2026

For Rolls-Royce, Black Badge has become the ideal platform for those experiments—a darker, more rebellious counterpart to the marque’s traditional identity. —Matthew MacConnell, Forbes.com, 18 May 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