1
Core quality
Noisy, unruly, argumentative, and difficult to control.
Example
The obstreperous crowd repeatedly interrupted the meeting.
obstreperous
/əbˈstrepərəs/ · ub-STREP-uh-rusadjective
Noisy, unruly, argumentative, and difficult to control.
Use obstreperous to express this relationship precisely: noisy, unruly, argumentative, and difficult to control.
What obstreperous Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Attributive or predicative use
Use this adjective before a suitable noun or after a linking verb such as be or seem.
Example
An obstreperous passenger refused to follow instructions.
3
Analytical distinction
Choose it when this exact descriptive quality matters; a related word may overlap without conveying the same trait.
Example
The class was energetic but not obstreperous.
Use obstreperous Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The obstreperous crowd repeatedly interrupted the meeting.
An obstreperous passenger refused to follow instructions.
The class was energetic but not obstreperous.
Precision Matters
Obstreperous overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
obstreperous
vs.Means noisy, unruly, argumentative, and difficult to control.
pugnacious
Means eager or quick to argue, quarrel, challenge, or fight.
obstreperous
vs.Means noisy, unruly, argumentative, and difficult to control.
placid
Means calm, peaceful, and not easily disturbed or excited.
obstreperous
vs.Means noisy, unruly, argumentative, and difficult to control.
affable
Means friendly, good-natured, and easy to speak with.
obstreperous
vs.Means noisy, unruly, argumentative, and difficult to control.
systematic
Means done according to an organized, consistent, and methodical plan or procedure.
Test obstreperous in Context
The group is noisy, unruly, and difficult to control.
1
The ___ audience shouted over every speaker and ignored repeated requests for order.