Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈrɛbəl/
KK: /ˈrɛbəl/
Definition
Describing someone who opposes authority or control, especially in a political context.
Example
The rebel forces fought against the oppressive regime.
Comparatives & Superlatives
Comparative: more rebel
Superlative: most rebel
Conversation

I read an article about a rebel group fighting for their rights.

That sounds intense! What are they rebelling against?

They're opposing a government that restricts their freedoms.

Wow, it’s important to stand up for what you believe in.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
defiant
insurgent
revolutionary
Antonyms
obedient
submissive
compliant
Definition
To resist or fight against authority, control, or tradition, often expressing strong disagreement or unwillingness.
Example
Many young people tend to rebel against the rules set by their parents.
Tense Forms
Past: rebelled
Past Participle: rebelled
Conversation

Have you ever thought about why some people rebel against authority?

Yeah, it’s interesting how often it happens in history.

I think it’s because they feel their voices aren’t being heard.
Definition
A person who resists or fights against authority, control, or tradition.
Example
The rebel led a group of people who wanted to change the government.
Conversation

Did you hear about that new student who seems like such a rebel?

Yeah, I saw them wearing a band t-shirt on the first day!

I think it's cool to be a rebel sometimes, it shows personality.
Root Explanation
Rebel → It is formed from "re-" (meaning back or again) and "bellare" (meaning to wage war). The word describes someone who wages war against authority or opposes established norms.
Memory Tip
Think of someone who is going 'back' ('re-') to 'wage war' ('bellare') against authority — that's why a rebel opposes the established order.
Visually Confused Words
reel
unrebel
relabel
corebel
revel
reuel
repel
refel