Insolence means bold disrespect toward someone in authority. When a student responds to a teacher's request with a rude comment or an eye roll, that's insolence. When someone speaks to a parent, coach, or principal with contempt instead of basic courtesy, they're being insolent.

The word captures more than simple rudeness. Insolence has an element of defiance: the person being insolent knows they're crossing a line and doesn't care. If you accidentally bump into your teacher in the hallway, that's clumsy, not insolent. But if you deliberately ignore their instructions while smirking, that's insolence.

An insolent attitude shows in words, tone, and body language. Talking back sarcastically, refusing to follow reasonable directions, or treating someone with obvious scorn can all count as insolent behavior. The word often appears in older books: a character might face consequences for “speaking with insolence” to a king or captain.

Insolence differs from standing up for yourself or asking honest questions. Politely disagreeing with a teacher's grading isn't insolent. Sneering at their explanation and saying “whatever” is. The difference lies in showing contempt rather than respect, even when you disagree.