Insolente

Insolente is an adjective used in several Romance languages to describe a person, gesture, or attitude that shows a bold lack of respect or impudence. The term typically carries a negative or pejorative tone, though in some contexts it can be used with a lighter or humorous nuance to acknowledge audacity.

Etymology and usage across languages

The word derives from Latin insolens, insolentia, from in- “not” + solere “to be accustomed,” originally conveying the sense of “unaccustomed” or “unusual” and later “shameless” or “impertinent.” Across languages, insolente movements or behavior share the core idea of defying norms of politeness or deference.

Italian

In Italian, insolente is an adjective that describes someone or something impudent or insolent. It is gendered as insolente (singular, masculine or feminine) and insolenti (plural).

French

In French, the equivalent is insolent (masculine) and insolente (feminine). The form changes with gender, but the meaning remains the same: a display of audacious rudeness.

Spanish

In Spanish, insolente is used for both masculine and feminine singular, with insolentes as the plural. It designates a person or behavior that is impertinent or insolent, often with a strong negative connotation.

Portuguese

In Portuguese, insolente is used similarly as an adjective of impertinence, with plural insolentes. The term can describe a person who behaves with bold disrespect or audacity.

See also: impertinent, audacious, disrespectful.