Obstinate

/ˈäbstəˌnāt/

Meaning & Definition

adjective
Stubbornly refusing to change one's opinion or chosen course of action, despite attempts to persuade one to do so.
Despite the warnings from his friends, he remained obstinate about pursuing his risky business venture.
Difficult to get rid of or deal with; resistant.
The obstinate stain on the wall refused to come off, no matter how much we scrubbed.
Refusing to change one's mind or attitude.
The obstinate child would not listen to reason and insisted on having ice cream for dinner.
Characterized by a determined adherence to one's purpose or opinion.
Her obstinate nature often led to conflicts with her team members, who preferred compromise.

Etymology

Latin obstinatus, from obstinare, meaning to stand firm.

Common Phrases and Expressions

obstinate as a mule
Extremely stubborn or inflexible.
obstinate refusal
A firm and unyielding rejection.
obstinate child
A child who is unreasonably stubborn.

Related Words

stubborn
Having or showing dogged determination not to change one's attitude or position on something.
headstrong
Being determined to have one's own way; willful.
intractable
Hard to control or deal with.

Slang Meanings

Stuck in one's ways
He's so stuck in his ways that he won't even try new foods.
Hard-headed
She's hard-headed about her opinions and won't listen to anyone else.