First Known Use: 15th century
Dictionary
unruly
adjective un·ruly \-ˈrü-lē\
: difficult to control
un·rul·i·erun·rul·i·est
Full Definition of UNRULY
: not readily ruled, disciplined, or managed <an unruly crowd> <a mane of unruly hair>
— un·rul·i·ness noun
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Origin of UNRULY
Middle English unreuly, from un- + reuly disciplined, from reule rule
Related to UNRULY
- Synonyms
- balky, contrary, contumacious, defiant, froward, incompliant, insubordinate, intractable, obstreperous, rebel, rebellious, recalcitrant, recusant, refractory, restive, ungovernable, disobedient, untoward, wayward, willful (or wilful)
- Antonyms
- amenable, biddable, compliant, conformable, docile, obedient, ruly, submissive, tractable
Synonym Discussion of UNRULY
unruly, ungovernable, intractable, refractory, recalcitrant, willful, headstrong mean not submissive to government or control. unruly implies lack of discipline or incapacity for discipline and often connotes waywardness or turbulence of behavior <unruly children>. ungovernable implies either an escape from control or guidance or a state of being unsubdued and incapable of controlling oneself or being controlled by others <ungovernable rage>. intractable suggests stubborn resistance to guidance or control <intractable opponents of the hazardous-waste dump>. refractory stresses resistance to attempts to manage or to mold <special schools for refractory children>. recalcitrant suggests determined resistance to or defiance of authority <acts of sabotage by a recalcitrant populace>. willful implies an obstinate determination to have one's own way <a willful disregard for the rights of others>. headstrong suggests self-will impatient of restraint, advice, or suggestion <a headstrong young cavalry officer>.
Rhymes with UNRULY
UNRULINESS Defined for Kids
unruly
adjective un·ruly \ˌən-ˈrü-lē\
un·rul·i·erun·rul·i·est
Definition of UNRULY for Kids
: difficult to control <unruly hair>
— un·rul·i·ness noun
Learn More About UNRULY
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