noun

impudence

IM-pyuh-dunss/ˈɪmpjədəns/

Bold disrespect or shameless rudeness.

The visitor's impudence offends the owner whose desk holds the dirty shoes.

A brazen visitor lounges with dirty shoes planted on another man's orderly desk, smirking at the desk owner's visibly offended objection.

Etymology

imLatinnot, without

+pudLatinto cause shame

+enceLatinstate or quality

The negative prefix and shame root give the underlying idea of shamelessness. Impudence is boldness that shows no shame or modesty, especially when expressed as rude or disrespectful behavior.

In context

Spirit Science7:56

Everyone that is, except one monk who refuses to leave his monastery. Enraged at such impudence, the tyrant marches directly to the monastery to confront the monk.

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More examples

The coach refuses to tolerate impudence from any player.
She mistakes his honest question for impudence.
Laughing in her face was an act of sheer impudence.

Forms

impudent adjective — Showing bold disrespect or shameless rudeness.

impudently adverb — In a boldly disrespectful or shamelessly rude manner.

Similar words

insolence: Emphasizes contemptuous disrespect, especially toward someone in authority.
effrontery: Emphasizes shameless boldness in making an outrageous demand or claim.