In'so-lent, a.
a. [Fr. insolent, Sp. & It. insolente, Lat. insolens, from prefix in and solens, accustomed, p. pr. of solere, to be accustomed.]
Sense 1. Deviating from that which is customary; unusual. [Obs.] “If any should accuse me of being new or insolent.” Milton.
Sense 2. Proud and haughty, with contempt of others; overbearing; domineering; as, an insolent master.
How insolent of late he is become! How proud! Shak.
Sense 3. Proceeding from insolence; haughty and contemptuous; as, insolent words or behavior.
Synonyms—Overbearing; insulting; abusive; offensive; saucy; impudent; audacious; pert; impertinent; rude; reproachful; opprobrious.—INSOLENT, INSULTING. In the word insolent, we have a curious instance of the change and progress of our language. This word, in its primitive sense, simply denoted unusual; and to act insolently was to act in violation of the established rules of social intercourse. He who did this was insolent; and thus the word has become one of the most offensive in our language, indicating a spirit of bloated pride or unbridled passion. Insulting denotes a personal attack, either in words or actions, indicative either of scorn or triumph.
Insolent is he that despiseth in his judgment all other folks as in regard of his value, of his cunning, of his speaking, and of his bearing. Chaucer.
Of being taken by the insolent foe, And sold to slavery. Shak.
Insulting tyranny begins to jut Upon the innocent and lawless throne; Welcome destruction, blood, and massacre! Shak.