What does "effrontery" mean?

"Effrontery" refers to a type of brazen boldness or audacity, often characterized by a lack of shame or respect for social norms. This term is commonly used to describe situations where someone acts with an over-the-top confidence that disregards the potential consequences or social etiquette.

For instance, if someone behaves in a way that is incredibly forward or disrespectful, seemingly without considering the feelings of others, that behavior could be described as effrontery. The meaning captures a sense of reckless daring that can be both surprising and offending to observers, reflecting an attitude of being unashamedly bold.

The other choices do not align with this definition. Humility involves a meek or modest view of oneself; reserved behavior implies a certain level of restraint and caution; and fearfulness suggests a lack of confidence, which contrasts sharply with the concept of boldness that "effrontery" embodies.