adj.
Pronunciation: - ' rü-l ē
Function: adjective
Inflected Form: un · rul · i · er ; -est
Etymology: Middle English unreuly, from un- + reuly disciplined, from reule rule
Date: 15th century
: not readily ruled, disciplined, or managed <an unruly crowd> <a mane of unruly hair>
– un · rul · i · ness noun
synonyms UNRULY , UNGOVERNABLE , INTRACTABLE , REFRACTORY , RECALCITRANT , WILLFUL , HEADSTRONG mean not submissive to government or control. UNRULY implies lack of discipline or incapacity for discipline and often connotes waywardness or turbulence of behavior < unruly children>. UNGOVERNABLE implies either an escape from control or guidance or a state of being unsubdued and incapable of controlling oneself or being controlled by others < ungovernable rage>. INTRACTABLE suggests stubborn resistance to guidance or control < intractable opponents of the hazardous-waste dump>. REFRACTORY stresses resistance to attempts to manage or to mold <special schools for refractory children>. RECALCITRANT suggests determined resistance to or defiance of authority <acts of sabotage by a recalcitrant populace>. WILLFUL implies an obstinate determination to have one's own way <a willful disregard for the rights of others>. HEADSTRONG suggests self-will impatient of restraint, advice, or suggestion <a headstrong young cavalry officer>.