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Synonym Chooser

How is the word obstreperous different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of obstreperous are blatant, boisterous, clamorous, strident, and vociferous. While all these words mean "so loud or insistent as to compel attention," obstreperous suggests unruly and aggressive noisiness and resistance to restraint.

the obstreperous demonstrators were arrested

Where would blatant be a reasonable alternative to obstreperous?

The words blatant and obstreperous are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, blatant implies an offensive bellowing or insensitive loudness.

blatant rock music
a blatant clamor for impeachment

When can boisterous be used instead of obstreperous?

The words boisterous and obstreperous can be used in similar contexts, but boisterous suggests a noisiness and turbulence due to high spirits.

a boisterous crowd of party goers

When is clamorous a more appropriate choice than obstreperous?

The meanings of clamorous and obstreperous largely overlap; however, clamorous may imply insistency as well as vociferousness in demanding or protesting.

clamorous demands for prison reforms

When might strident be a better fit than obstreperous?

In some situations, the words strident and obstreperous are roughly equivalent. However, strident suggests harsh and discordant noise.

heard the strident cry of the crow

In what contexts can vociferous take the place of obstreperous?

The synonyms vociferous and obstreperous are sometimes interchangeable, but vociferous implies a vehement shouting or calling out.

vociferous cries of protest and outrage

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of obstreperous In some ways, Paul has been less obstreperous than them. Eric Cortellessa, TIME, 18 Mar. 2025 In those days, even small neighborhood theaters employed uniformed ushers to guide latecomers to their seats with a flashlight, patrol the aisles, and handle obstreperous customers. Thomas Doherty, The Hollywood Reporter, 27 Dec. 2024 Featuring bodies stacked like cords of wood and a bloated S.S. guard dangling from an iron hook, the spread was an obstreperous incursion among the kind of fashion and perfume ads that Miller had once shot or appeared in. Chris Wiley, The New Yorker, 10 Jan. 2024 Rachelle and Matthew had told me that Zac had become obstreperous and even menacing toward them, but Howells mentioned several incidents of physical aggression. Patrick Radden Keefe, The New Yorker, 5 Feb. 2024 See All Example Sentences for obstreperous
Recent Examples of Synonyms for obstreperous
Adjective
  • Known for his outspoken floor speeches and frequent criticism of bipartisan bills, May had also built a reputation as a disruptive political consultant, backing challengers against sitting GOP incumbents.
    Gabe Whisnant, MSNBC Newsweek, 12 June 2025
  • Thompson, who turned 31 in April, was a longtime leader of the Panthers’ locker room, known for his energy, quickness and outspoken nature.
    Mike Kaye, Charlotte Observer, 10 June 2025
Adjective
  • From the start, Handy argues, the on-screen adventures in teen movies have been targeted to a double audience of rebellious teens and anxious adults.
    Hillary Kelly, The Atlantic, 6 June 2025
  • In addition to provoking rebellious and impulsive actions, this unpredictable synergy can abruptly derail plans.
    Valerie Mesa, People.com, 4 June 2025
Adjective
  • Festivals could dedicate space or moments to highlight these causes, and labels/promoters can support artists who are vocal about these issues.
    Sigal Ratner-Arias, Billboard, 20 June 2025
  • In her role at the Camera Moda Fashion Trust, she’s been vocal about the importance to support the next generation and regularly urges big brands to do their part, especially at a time of economic volatility.
    Martino Carrera, Footwear News, 20 June 2025
Adjective
  • Yet none of this has dampened Mr. Trump’s enthusiasm for bringing U.S. influence to bear in trying to end the rebel incursion – in part because the fighting has affected a region that holds some of Congo’s main rare earth deposits.
    Ned Temko, Christian Science Monitor, 12 June 2025
  • The legislature entertained several bills—including two from Sumner—to authorize the government to seize rebel property, including slaves.
    Zaakir Tameez June 11, Literary Hub, 11 June 2025
Adjective
  • Both players have played down the rivalry, but their fan bases are often vociferous in their dislike of the opposing player.
    Kevin Dotson, CNN Money, 27 May 2025
  • Milan’s owner, Gerry Cardinale, has been subject to vociferous criticism by fans this season, and if Inter win the Champions League, whatever happens on Wednesday won’t matter to many of the management’s detractors.
    James Horncastle, New York Times, 14 May 2025
Adjective
  • That’s what makes their fourth studio album, Lucius, almost defiant in its return to form.
    Marissa R. Moss, Rolling Stone, 11 June 2025
  • Asked about his potential exit at the weekend while on international duty for Germany, Ter Stegen was defiant.
    Tom Sanderson, Forbes.com, 5 June 2025
Adjective
  • Never in 250 years has any U.S. president needed such a blatant and expensive birthday parade.
    Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 22 June 2025
  • Amid blatant insults to servicemen and veterans, President Trump's approval remains relatively high, with most Americans agreeing with his immigration policies.
    Newsweek Staff, MSNBC Newsweek, 18 June 2025
Adjective
  • Then Curry, rattled by the monumental reverb of Kyrie’s shot, hurried into a stubborn approach on the ensuing possession, missed a desperate 3 over Kevin Love, who used his length and a rare display of defensive intensity to deny Curry a good look.
    David Aldridge, New York Times, 22 June 2025
  • All of which can be employed by Musk or anyone else using AI to target us with false political advertising tailored to our most stubborn biases, further dividing us, manipulating elections and solidifying what has already become a fascist state.
    Sal Recchi, The Orlando Sentinel, 22 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Obstreperous.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/obstreperous. Accessed 26 Jun. 2025.

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