Unruly

Unruly is an adjective used to describe behavior or conditions that resist control, discipline, or order. It can refer to people—especially children or crowds—as well as to things that are difficult to manage, such as unruly hair or unruly weather. The term often implies disruption or lack of compliance with rules or expectations, but it does not inherently condemn the person or thing described.

In everyday language, the word is neutral to slightly negative in tone. In legal, educational, and social contexts, it can carry more technical meanings. For example, in some jurisdictions a "unruly" child is one whose behavior is outside the supervision or control of parents, schools, or guardians; "unruly conduct" may describe acts by a minor that would be illegal if committed by an adult. Definitions and remedies vary by jurisdiction and over time.

Etymology and related terms: The word comes from the prefix un- plus ruly, with ruly meaning governed by a rule or orderly. It first appears in Middle English and has since been used to denote something that resists orderly management. Synonyms include disorderly, rowdy, boisterous, and unmanageable; antonyms include orderly, compliant, and disciplined. Related phrases include "unruly crowd" and "unruly hair."