Mutiny
/ˈmjuːtɪni/
Definitions
2 meaningsAn open rebellion against authority, especially by military or naval personnel.
/ˈmjuːtɪni/
An open rebellion against the proper authorities, especially by sailors or soldiers against their officers.
The soldiers' mutiny was swiftly suppressed by loyalist forces.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're on a ship and the sailors decide they don't like the captain anymore and they're going to take over the ship. That's a mutiny! It's like a big revolt.
👶 For kids: When people who work for someone don't like the boss and decide to fight back or take over.
More Examples
The sailors planned a mutiny after weeks of poor treatment and inadequate food.
News of the mutiny spread quickly throughout the fleet.
How It's Used
"The crew's mutiny led to the captain's removal from command."
"The infamous mutiny on the Bounty remains a well-known historical event."
To revolt or rebel against authority.
/ˈmjuːtɪni/
To refuse to obey the orders of a person in authority.
The crew mutinied after enduring weeks of harsh conditions.
💡 Simply: Imagine you disagree strongly with your teacher or your parents, and you decide to go against what they want. That's kind of like mutiny, but usually involves a bigger group and a lot of anger and a power struggle!
👶 For kids: To fight against or not listen to someone in charge.
More Examples
The soldiers threatened to mutiny if their demands were not met.
He was accused of inciting the troops to mutiny.
How It's Used
"The soldiers mutinied against their cruel commander."
"The employees, disgruntled with the new policies, seemed to be mutinying."
From Middle English mutynye, from Old French mutin, from Latin motio ('a movement, disturbance').
The word 'mutiny' has been used since the 14th century to describe rebellions, particularly those on ships. Famous historical instances include the mutiny on the Bounty.
Memory tip
Think of 'mute' (silent) and 'tiny' to remember the rebellious group. They are small and are trying to silence authority.