insult
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ɪnˈsʌlt/
KK: /ɪnˈsʌlt/
intransitive verb
Definition
To speak or act in a way that is disrespectful or offensive to someone.
Example
He didn't mean to insult her with his comment.
Tense Forms
Past: insulted
Past Participle: insulted
Conversation
I overheard him say something that could really insult her.
That's not cool at all; he should know better.
Yeah, it’s surprising how some people just don’t care about offending others.
Exactly! It's like they enjoy being rude for no reason.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
offend
slight
disparage
Antonyms
praise
compliment
flatter
noun
Definition
A disrespectful or offensive remark or action that hurts someone's feelings or dignity.
Example
He took her comments as an insult and felt very hurt.
Conversation
Did you hear what he said about you at the party?
Yeah, it was such an insult to my cooking!
I can't believe he would say something like that.
transitive verb
Definition
To speak to or treat someone in a way that is rude or disrespectful, often causing them to feel hurt or offended.
Example
He didn't mean to insult her with his comment about her dress.
Tense Forms
Past: insulted
Past Participle: insulted
Conversation
I can't believe he would insult her like that in front of everyone.
I know, right? It was so disrespectful and uncalled for.
Exactly! It's like he doesn't even care about people's feelings.
Root Explanation
Insult is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "saltare" (meaning to jump). The word originally referred to the act of jumping upon someone, metaphorically meaning to attack or offend.
Memory Tip
Think of 'not' ('in-') and 'jumping' ('saltare') on someone — that's why to insult means to attack or offend someone verbally.
Visually Confused Words
reinsult
insoul
indult
incult
preinsult