Definition

In a way that shows a desire to resist authority or control.

Example

The teenager spoke rebelliously against the rules set by her parents.

Conversation

Did you see how she dressed for school today?

Yeah, she looked pretty rebelliously cool!

I think it's great she expresses herself like that.

Totally! It takes guts to stand out like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Rebelliously → It is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "bellare" (meaning to wage war). The word describes the act of waging war against authority or norms again, hence acting in defiance.

Memory Tip

Think of 'waging war' ('bellare') against something 'again' ('re-') — that's why rebellious means acting against authority.

Visually Confused Words