adjective

impertinent

im-PURT-nunt/ɪmˈpɜːrtnənt/

Rude or disrespectfully bold.

The impertinent listener interrupts the speaker with a smirk and dismissive gesture.

A rude adult interrupts a serious speaker with a dismissive raised hand and smirk, other listeners look disapproving.
Etymology

“Not relating to the matter” shifted to “inappropriate to the situation,” then to rude boldness through the idea of meddling beyond one's proper sphere.

In context

misesmedia47:11
to his credit, Steve apologized for his impertinent questions in a later post.
Panel: The Significance of Hans-Hermann Hoppe

More examples

  • The teacher asks him to apologize for his impertinent remark.
  • I hope you won't think me impertinent for asking your age.
  • Her impertinent reply earns a stern look from the judge.

Forms

impertinent

impertinence noun — Rude or disrespectfully bold behavior.

impertinently adverb — In a rude or disrespectfully bold manner.

Similar words

insolent
Suggests more openly insulting or defiant behavior.
impudent
Emphasizes shameless boldness, especially toward someone deserving respect.
rude
Broader; includes bad manners without boldness or defiance.