Rebellious: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe someone who resists authority or control in a strong, often passionate way, usually against societal norms or rules.

• Teenagers often go through a rebellious phase.
• The artist was known for her rebellious spirit.

Best suited for someone showing a bold resistance to authority or an opposing force, often with a confrontational attitude.

• She gave a defiant look to the police officer.
• His defiant attitude landed him in trouble.

Applied in formal or workplace settings to describe someone who refuses to obey authority, commands, or rules, often leading to disciplinary actions.

• The insubordinate employee was warned by his manager.
• He faced consequences for being insubordinate.

Describes someone who refuses to follow orders or rules, commonly used in a negative sense, especially regarding children or pets.

• The disobedient dog refused to sit.
• Her disobedient behavior was a constant issue in class.

Used to describe someone or something difficult to control or manage, often because they behave in a wild or lawless manner.

• The unruly children made a mess of the room.
• Her unruly hair was impossible to tame.

Used to describe someone who resists authority or control and often involves a sense of active resistance or a desire for change.

• Teenagers can be very rebellious, challenging their parents' rules at every turn
• The revolutionary leader had a rebellious spirit, always fighting against the oppressive regime

Implies a bold resistance against authority, rules, or norms, often in a confrontational way.

• The defiant student stood up and walked out of the classroom
• Her defiant attitude made it clear she wouldn't comply with the new policy

Specifically used in hierarchical or workplace situations to describe someone who disobeys orders or refuses to follow instructions from a superior.

• The soldier was court-martialed for being insubordinate to his commanding officer
• The employee was reprimanded for her insubordinate behavior during the meeting

Indicates someone who deliberately does the opposite of what is expected or requested, often just to be difficult.

• She has a contrary nature, always insisting on arguing the opposite point of view
• Despite knowing the guidelines, he took a contrary approach just to provoke a reaction

Describes someone difficult to control or manage, often used in contexts involving behavior that is wild and disorganized.

• The unruly crowd at the concert made it difficult for security to maintain order
• His unruly hair was always sticking out in different directions