Definition

Not willing to obey rules or authority; showing a lack of respect for those in charge.

Example

The insubordinate employee was reprimanded for ignoring his manager's instructions.

Conversation

I heard that Tom got in trouble at work again.

Really? What happened this time?

Apparently, he was being insubordinate during the team meetings.

That sounds like him; he never listens to authority.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Insubordinate → It is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "subordinare" (from Latin, meaning to arrange under or subordinate). The word describes someone who is not arranged under authority or who does not obey orders.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'not' ('in-') 'under' ('subordinare') authority — that's why insubordinate means not obeying authority.

Visually Confused Words