insubordinate
2 synonyms and 1 antonym for insubordinate, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Refusing to obey orders or accept authority; defiant.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
resistive
Antonyms
How to use insubordinate
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
insubordinate employee
insubordinate conduct
Etymology
From in- ("not") + subordinate, modeled on French insubordonné.
Full origin of insubordinate →Frequently asked questions
What does “insubordinate” mean?
The word “insubordinate” means refusing to obey orders or accept authority; defiant. In plain terms, openly disobedient toward someone in charge.
How do you use “insubordinate” in a sentence?
Here is “insubordinate” used in a sentence: “The soldier was disciplined for insubordinate behavior.”
What part of speech is “insubordinate”?
“Insubordinate” is an adjective.
Where does the word “insubordinate” come from?
The word “insubordinate” comes from French. From in- ("not") + subordinate, modeled on French insubordonné.
