definition

insolent

\In"so*lent\, a. [F. insolent, L. insolens, -entis, pref. in- not + solens accustomed, p. pr. of solere to be accustomed.] 1. Deviating from that which is customary; novel; strange; unusual. [Obs.]

If one chance to derive any word from the Latin which is insolent to their ears...they forth with make a jest at it. --Pettie.

If any should accuse me of being new or insolent. --Milton.

2. Haughty and contemptuous or brutal in behavior or language; overbearing; domineering; grossly rude or disrespectful; saucy; as, an insolent master; an insolent servant. ``A paltry, insolent fellow.'' --Shak.

Insolent is he that despiseth in his judgment all other folks as in regard of his value, of his cunning, of his speaking, and of his bearing. --Chaucer.

Can you not see? or will ye not observe...How insolent of late he is become, How proud, how peremptory? --Shak.

3. Proceeding from or characterized by insolence; insulting; as, insolent words or behavior.

Their insolent triumph excited... indignation. --Macaulay.

Syn: Overbearing; insulting; abusive; offensive; saucy; impudent; audacious; pert; impertinent; rude; reproachful; opprobrious.




SOURCE: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary, © 1996, 1998 MICRA, Inc.

rud·der Pronunciation Key  (rdr)
n.

A vertically hinged plate of metal, fiberglass, or wood mounted at the stern of a ship or boat for directing its course.

A similar structure at the tail of an aircraft, used for effecting horizontal changes in course.

A controlling agent or influence over direction; a guide.


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[Middle English ruder, from Old English rther, steering oar. See er- in Indo-European Roots.]


SOURCE: The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.

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