back talk

noun

Synonyms of back talknext
: impudent, insolent, or argumentative replies

Examples of back talk in a Sentence

Don't give me any back talk! his mother sent him to his room because of his constant back talk
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
There’s no back talk and no emotional baggage, just pure obedience. Jason Parham, Wired News, 26 Feb. 2026 Learn how to raise responsible kids; put an end to arguing, back talk and begging; avoid power struggles; and preserve loving relationships with your children. Laura Groch, San Diego Union-Tribune, 23 Oct. 2022

Word History

First Known Use

1832, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of back talk was in 1832

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Back talk.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/back%20talk. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

back talk

noun
: a rude or quarrelsome reply
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