English Lexicon

Insulting

/ɪnˈsʌltɪŋ/
adjectiveCEFR B2 (Upper)Top #1500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As adjective
  1. 1

    Causing offense or disrespect.

    "His insulting remarks during the meeting made everyone uncomfortable."
  2. 2

    Characterized by or containing insults.

    "The article was filled with insulting comments about the celebrity."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

The word 'insulting' originates from the Latin 'insultare', meaning 'to jump on' or 'to attack'. It evolved through Middle French 'insulter', which carried the meaning of 'to affront or abuse'. Over time, it has come to describe actions or remarks that are disrespectful or offensive.

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