impertinent

Impertinent is an adjective with two common senses. One sense means not pertinent or not relevant to the matter at hand. In this sense, an impertinent question or remark is one that fails to address the topic or is inappropriate in context. The other sense means bold, forward, or impudent, showing a lack of respect for others, especially authority. In this usage, an impertinent person is someone who speaks or acts rudely or presumptuously.

Etymology: The word comes from Middle English impertinent, borrowed from Old French impertinent, from Latin impertinentem, from in- “not” + pertinēns “pertinent” (from pertinere “to pertain,” “to be relevant”). The original sense was “not pertaining, irrelevant.” By the early modern period the word acquired a second sense, describing someone who is forward or insolent, i.e., showing impudence or lack of respect.

Usage: In modern English, impertinent is most often used of remarks or questions considered improper or disrespectful, or of people who display bold, insolent behavior. The noun is impertinence; the adverb impertinently. Close synonyms include impudent, insolent, and brazen; near-antonyms include relevant and respectful. The word is most common in formal or literary contexts and can sound mild or archaic in everyday speech.