A lout is a person who behaves in a rude, clumsy, or inconsiderate way, especially someone who lacks manners or respect for others. If someone barges through a door without holding it for the person behind them, talks loudly during a movie, or pushes past people in line, you might call them a lout.

The word suggests a pattern of thoughtless or rough behavior. Picture someone who tracks mud through a library, knocks over displays without apologizing, or shouts when others are trying to concentrate. A lout doesn't consider how their actions affect people around them.

You might hear someone described as loutish if they're acting like a lout. At a nice restaurant, loutish behavior might include chewing with your mouth open, talking with your mouth full, or being loud and disruptive. In a classroom, a lout might kick the back of someone's chair repeatedly or mock other students.

The word is fairly old-fashioned and carries a tone of disapproval. When you call someone a lout, you're saying they're behaving in a way that shows poor judgment and a lack of consideration for the people around them.