adjective

indignant

in-DIG-nuhnt/ɪnˈdɪɡnənt/

Angry at something seen as unfair or insulting.

The man is indignant when his companion leaves him only a tiny slice.

At a shared table, a man reacts with offended anger as his companion serves himself almost the entire cake while leaving him only a tiny sliver.

Etymology

inLatinnot

+dignLatinworthy, fitting

+antLatinpresent participle

The pieces begin with judging something not worthy or fitting. The intervening verb meant to deem unworthy and to resent, so an indignant person feels anger at treatment or conduct judged improper.

In context

PragerU0:05

Can you or your children be punished for refusing to publicly salute the flag? Your first reaction is probably an indignant, "Of course not."

West Virginia v. Barnette: Forcing the Pledge of Allegiance? | 5-Minute Videos | PragerU

More examples

He sounds indignant when I accuse him of cheating.
The unfair rent increase draws indignant protests from tenants.
I'm indignant at the suggestion that I need a babysitter.

Forms

indignant · more indignant · most indignant

indignation noun — Anger over perceived unfairness or insult.

indignantly adverb — With anger at perceived unfairness or insult.

Similar words

resentful: Suggests lingering bitterness over unfair treatment rather than immediate outrage.
outraged: Expresses stronger anger, often at something shocking or morally wrong.
offended: Emphasizes hurt or displeasure caused by a perceived insult.