Word of the Day

: May 28, 2007

impertinent

adjective im-PER-tuh-nunt

What It Means

1 : not pertinent : irrelevant

2 a : not restrained within due or proper bounds especially of propriety or good taste

b : given to or characterized by insolent rudeness

impertinent in Context

Clearly offended, Susan refused to answer an impertinent question about her marriage.

Did You Know?

English speakers adopted both "impertinent" and "pertinent" from Anglo-French in the 14th century. Both words derive from the present participle of the Latin verb "pertinēre," meaning "to pertain." Initially, "impertinent" was used for things that are simply not relevant. Over time, it came to be used of things that are not only irrelevant but rudely or inappropriately so, and later for people who are just straight-out rude.

*Indicates the sense illustrated in the example sentence.