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insult

verb

/ɪnˈsʌlt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of insult

To intentionally or unintentionally offend, belittle, or disrespect them through words, actions, or gestures.
"Her comments, although subtle, were intended to insult his work."

Detailed meaning of insult

It involves expressing derogatory or offensive remarks that are intended to undermine a person's dignity, self-esteem, or worth. Insults can take various forms, such as personal attacks, mocking, name-calling, or the use of offensive language. The purpose of insulting someone is often to provoke a negative emotional response or to assert dominance or superiority over them. Insults can cause emotional pain, humiliation, and damage to an individual's self-confidence. It is important to recognize that insults are harmful and can negatively impact relationships, creating hostility and fostering a hostile environment. Building a culture of respect and empathy is essential in promoting harmonious and healthy interactions among individuals.

Example sentences containing insult

1. Do not insult her intelligence by lying.
2. He dared to insult my cooking skills.
3. They never miss an opportunity to insult our choices.
4. If you insult his hobby, he will stop sharing his interests with you.
5. We should never insult anyone's cultural practices.
6. She might insult you without even realizing it.

History and etymology of insult

The verb 'insult' has its etymological roots in the Latin word 'insultare,' which is a combination of 'in,' meaning 'on,' and 'saltare,' meaning 'to leap' or 'to jump.' Originally, 'insultare' referred to the act of leaping or dancing upon someone or something, often as a sign of triumph or derision. Over time, this physical act evolved into the more figurative sense of intentionally or unintentionally offending, belittling, or disrespecting someone through words, actions, or gestures. Thus, etymologically, 'insult' suggests the idea of figuratively leaping or jumping on someone's sensibilities or dignity, causing offense or humiliation through verbal or behavioral actions.

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Further usage examples of insult

1. I don't want to insult you, but your argument lacks logic.
2. The rude comments insult the dignity of every individual.
3. Whenever you insult him, his anger flares up.
4. To insult a stranger is not a display of strength but of weakness.
5. Does this color insult your fashion sense?
6. Your words might unintentionally insult someone.
7. You don't need to insult her to prove your point.
8. We often insult ourselves without even realizing it.
9. A good leader doesn't insult their team.
10. Their behavior started to insult my patience.
11. You insult me when you question my integrity.
12. They think they can insult my knowledge with their false facts.
13. He says it's a joke, but it's just an attempt to insult me.
14. When we insult others, we're revealing more about our character than theirs.