insubordinate
UK: ˌɪnsəˈbɔːdɪnət | US: ˌɪnsəˈbɔːrdɪnət
adj. refusing to obey authority; defiant or rebellious
n. a person who refuses to submit to authority
insubordinate = in<not> + sub<under> + ordinate<arrange>
- in-: A Latin prefix meaning "not" or "opposite of."
- sub-: A Latin prefix meaning "under" or "below."
- ordinate: Derived from Latin ordinare (to arrange or command), related to order.
Etymology Origin:
The word "insubordinate" combines Latin elements to convey defiance against hierarchical order. "Sub-" implies submission (e.g., subordinate), while "in-" negates it, creating a term for resistance to authority. The root ordinate ties to organizational structure, making the word logically describe someone who disrupts this arrangement.
The insubordinate soldier refused to follow the general’s orders.
Her insubordinate attitude often got her into trouble at work.
The manager warned the team against insubordinate behavior.
Insubordinate employees may face disciplinary action.
His insubordinate remarks during the meeting shocked everyone.