Insulting
ɪnˈsʌltɪŋ
Definitions
Causing offense or showing a lack of respect; contemptuous or rude.
ɪnˈsʌltɪŋ
Causing offense or showing a lack of respect.
The politician's remarks were considered insulting to the minority group.
💡 Simply: Imagine someone says something mean or rude that hurts your feelings. That's insulting. Like if someone told you your drawing was terrible.
👶 For kids: When something makes you feel bad or sad on purpose.
More Examples
She found his casual dismissal of her work deeply insulting.
It was insulting to be left out of the invitation list.
How It's Used
"His comment was deeply insulting."
"The company's behavior was viewed as insulting to its customers."
From Middle English insulten, from Old French insulter, from Latin insultare ('to leap upon, trample on, taunt'). The -ing suffix indicates the present participle or gerund form.
The word 'insulting' and its related forms have been used since the 16th century to describe actions or words that are offensive or disrespectful. Early usage often involved physical acts, such as acts of violence or taunting.
Memory tip
Think of someone shouting an insult—it’s designed to be insulting.