Learn a Word Daily — Obstreperous
Today’s word is "Obstreperous": Noisy and difficult to control.
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Word of the Day · February 6, 2026
Obstreperous
ub-STREP-er-us · adjective

Definition

Noisy and difficult to control; aggressively unruly.

Pronunciation

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Origin & Etymology

From Latin obstreperus, meaning “making a noise” or “clamorous,” from ob- (“against”) + strepere (“to make a noise”).

Nuance

Obstreperous isn’t just “loud.” It’s loud and uncooperative — the kind of chaos that won’t take a hint.

Usage

“The meeting was interrupted by an obstreperous group in the hallway.”

Fun Fact

If you’ve ever had to calm down an “obstreperous” crowd (or kids on a sugar high), you already know exactly what this word feels like.
 

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