Insult

Definition

A disrespectful or scornfully abusive remark or action.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation (Noun): /ˈɪnsʌlt/
• Respelling (Noun): IN-sult (with "IN" as in "tin" and "sult" as in "cult")
• IPA Pronunciation (Verb): /ɪnˈsʌlt/
• Respelling (Verb): in-SULT (with "in" as in "tin" and "SULT" as in "cult")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation (Noun): /ˈɪnsʌlt/
• Respelling (Noun): IN-sult (with "IN" as in "tin" and "sult" as in "cult")
• IPA Pronunciation (Verb): /ɪnˈsʌlt/
• Respelling (Verb): in-SULT (with "in" as in "tin" and "SULT" as in "cult")

In both dialects, "insult" as a noun places the primary stress on the first syllable, "IN," and as a verb places the primary stress on the second syllable, "SULT." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "IN-sult" (noun) and "in-SULT" (verb).

Etymology

Derived from Latin insultare meaning "to jump, leap or dart upon," from in- ("on, upon") + saltare ("to jump"), frequentative of salire ("to leap").

Derivatives

• Insulting (adjective)
• Insultingly (adverb)
• Insulter (noun)
• Insultation (noun, archaic)
• Insultive (adjective)

Synonyms

• Offense
• Slur
• Derogation

Antonyms

• Compliment
• Praise
• Flattery

Usage

"Insult" is used in both verbal and written forms to describe actions or remarks intended to demean or offend someone.

Related Terms

• Affront
• Slight
• Put-down
• Dis
• Mockery

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Insult (Noun, General): A disrespectful or scornful remark or action intended to offend or demean someone.
  • Example: "Her comment was a direct insult to his intelligence."

• Insult (Noun, Medical): An event or occurrence that causes damage or harm to the body or an organ.
  • Example: "The brain insult resulted in significant cognitive impairment."

Verb

• Insult (Verb, General): To speak to or treat with disrespect or scornful abuse.
  • Example: "He insulted her by questioning her competence in front of the team."

• Insult (Verb, Medical): To cause harm or damage to the body or an organ.
  • Example: "The toxins insult the liver, leading to serious health issues."

Note: The term "insult" conveys a negative sentiment, suggesting harm or offense intended or perceived.