impertinent
Impertinent (adj) means Rude or disrespectful, especially in a way that oversteps one's place. Example: “It was impertinent of him to interrupt the CEO.”
How to use impertinent
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishCheeky and disrespectful, or, more formally, beside the point.
Don't confuse with "impatient" — impertinent is about rudeness, not a lack of patience.
Word forms
more impertinent comparative, impertinents plural, most impertinent superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
It was _____ of him to interrupt the CEO.
Etymology
From Latin impertinens, ultimately im- ("not") + pertinent.
Rhymes for impertinent
See all rhymes for impertinent →Frequently asked questions
What does “impertinent” mean?
The word “impertinent” means rude or disrespectful, especially in a way that oversteps one's place. In plain terms, cheeky and disrespectful, or, more formally, beside the point.
How do you pronounce “impertinent”?
“Impertinent” is pronounced ihm-PUR-tih-nuhnt (/ɪmˈpɝ.tɪ.nənt/ in IPA).
How do you use “impertinent” in a sentence?
Here is “impertinent” used in a sentence: “It was impertinent of him to interrupt the CEO.”
What part of speech is “impertinent”?
“Impertinent” is an adjective.
Where does the word “impertinent” come from?
The word “impertinent” comes from Latin. From Latin impertinens, ultimately im- ("not") + pertinent.
How many meanings does “impertinent” have?
“Impertinent” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: rude or disrespectful, especially in a way that oversteps one's place.