Rebel

Definition

‍A "rebel" is a person who rises in opposition or armed resistance against an established government or ruler. In a broader sense, it can also refer to someone who resists authority, control, or convention.

Parts of Speech

‍Rebel can function as both a noun and a verb.

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈrɛbəl/
• Respelling: REB-uhl (with "REB" as in "web," and "uhl" as in "cuddle")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈrɛbəl/
• Respelling: REB-uhl (similar to American English, with "REB" as in "web," and "uhl" as in "cuddle")

In both dialects, "rebel" is pronounced with the stress on the first syllable, "REB." The pronunciation is consistent across both American and British English, clearly articulating the word with emphasis on the "REB" syllable.

Etymology

‍The word "rebel" originates from the Old French "rebel," meaning "rebellious," which in turn is derived from the Latin "rebellis" (waging war again), from "re-" (again) + "bellare" (to wage war). The term was first used in English in the early 14th century.

Derivatives

• Rebellious (adj): showing a desire to resist authority, control, or convention.
• Rebellion (n): an act of violent or open resistance to an established government or ruler.
• Rebelled (v): past tense of rebel, indicating the action of resisting authority.
• Rebelling (v): present participle of rebel, indicating the ongoing action of resistance.
• Rebelliousness (n): the state or quality of being rebellious.

Synonyms

• Dissenter
• Insurgent
• Revolutionary

Antonyms

• Conformist
• Loyalist
• Supporter

Usage

‍The term "rebel" is often used to describe an individual or group that actively opposes the established order or leadership. In historical contexts, it typically refers to participants in a rebellion, such as those involved in civil wars or anti-colonial struggles.

Related Terms

• Insurrection
• Mutiny
• Revolt
• Uprising

Detailed Definitions

• As a Noun: A rebel is someone who refuses to accept authority or control, often demonstrating this by engaging in acts of resistance or defiance against a government or other power structure.
• As a Verb: To rebel means to resist or fight against a government or another authority, often through violent means. It involves actions aimed at undermining or overthrowing those in power.