The word "obstreperousness" is not easy to spell, especially if you're unfamiliar with the phonetic sounds that make it up. IPA phonetic transcription can help simplify it: /əbˈstrɛpərəs nɪs/. The first syllable, "ob," is pronounced with a schwa sound, followed by the stressed second syllable which contains the vowel sound /ɛ/ and the consonants /str/. The last syllable ends with the suffix -ness, indicating the quality of being obstreperous - meaning to be noisy and difficult to control.
Obstreperousness is a noun that refers to the state or quality of being obstreperous. The term obstreperous, in turn, describes someone or something as being noisy, unruly, or disruptive in behavior. It can also indicate a tendency to be defiant or difficult to control.
The term is often used to characterize individuals who are extremely loud and disruptive, particularly in a manner that is uncooperative or contrary to authority. For example, an obstreperous child may constantly disobey rules, make excessive noise, throw tantrums, or display a lack of respect for others.
Obstreperousness can also extend to describe objects or situations that cause a great deal of commotion, disorder, or disturbance. For instance, an obstreperous crowd might refer to a rowdy group of people causing trouble or engaging in riotous behavior in a public setting.
In a broader context, obstreperousness can be seen as a manifestation of resistance or protest against rules, norms, or restrictions. It suggests a strong inclination towards rebellion, defiance, or a refusal to conform to social expectations.
Overall, obstreperousness captures a range of behaviors and situations marked by excessive noise, unruliness, and a tendency to challenge authority or disrupt the established order.
The state or quality of being loudly clamorous.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "obstreperousness" comes from the combination of two parts: "obstreperous" and the suffix "-ness".
"Obstreperous" can be traced back to the Latin word "obstrepere", which means "to make a noise" or "to clamor". In Old English, the word was transformed into "obstreperus", meaning "clamorous" or "boisterous". Over time, it evolved into the Middle English word "obstreperous", with the same meaning.
The suffix "-ness" is derived from Old English "-nes", which was used to form abstract nouns indicating a state or condition. When added to "obstreperous", it creates the noun "obstreperousness", which refers to the state or quality of being boisterous, unruly, or noisy.