Obstreperous: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe someone or something that is aggressively noisy and resists control. It often carries a negative connotation.

• The obstreperous child refused to follow any instructions.
• At the meeting, the obstreperous audience interrupted the speaker repeatedly.

Describes someone or something that is noisy, energetic, and cheerful. It can be used in both positive and neutral contexts.

• The boisterous crowd cheered loudly for their team.
• Their boisterous laughter filled the room.

Refers to someone or something that is difficult to control or manage, often due to disorderly and disruptive behavior. This word carries a negative connotation.

• The unruly children were making it hard for the teacher to focus on the lesson.
• The protesters became unruly, leading to a police intervention.

Describes people, especially groups, that are noisy, disorderly, and potentially disruptive. It usually has a negative connotation.

• The rowdy teenagers caused a commotion in the shopping mall.
• After the sports event, some of the fans became rowdy and unruly.

Refers to something that has a high volume. It can describe sounds or people and is neutral but can take on a negative connotation depending on the situation.

• The music at the party was too loud for me to hear anyone.
• Her voice was loud enough to be heard across the room.

Used to describe someone who is noisy and difficult to control, often causing a scene.

• The obstreperous crowd made it hard to hear the speaker.
• The child became obstreperous when denied another piece of cake.

Used when someone openly resists or refuses to obey authority.

• The defiant teenager refused to obey the curfew.
• She gave him a defiant look before walking away.

Often used for someone who resists authority, control, or convention, usually in a larger, more systemic context.

• The rebellious group organized protests against the new law.
• In her youth, she was quite rebellious, always challenging societal norms.

Describes someone who disobeys orders from a superior, usually in a work or organizational setting.

• The insubordinate employee refused to follow the manager's instructions.
• His insubordinate behavior led to immediate disciplinary action.

Typically used to depict someone who is purposely disagreeable or opposite in nature.

• Her contrary opinions often led to heated arguments.
• He's always contrary, never agreeing with anyone else's plans.