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Definition of "obstinate" []

  • Stubbornly adhering to an attitude, opinion, or course of action; obdurate. (adjective)
  • Difficult to manage, control, or subdue; refractory. (adjective)
  • Difficult to alleviate or cure: an obstinate headache. (adjective)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

Use "obstinate" in a sentence
  • "Beth had been lying back against the seat for an hour or more with her eyes closed, having complained of a headache after quarreling with him again over what she termed his obstinate refusal to be conciliating with Richmond."
  • "Pained at what he called the obstinate infatuation of Miss Beaufort, and if possible more chagrined by what he considered the blind and absurd encouragement of his aunt, Mr. Somerset lost the whole of her last reprimand in his hurry to quit the room."
  • "I'm sure he'll remain obstinate and continue to promote abortion."