Definitions

obstinate

[ob-stuh-nit] / ˈɒb stə nɪt /

ADJECTIVE

stubborn, determined

Synonyms

STRONGEST

adamant dogmatic headstrong inflexible intransigent recalcitrant steadfast tenacious unyielding willful

STRONG

convinced dogged firm hardened resolved

WEAK

cantankerous contradictory contrary contumacious dead set on hard heady immovable indomitable intractable locked-in mulish obdurate opinionated opinionative persistent pertinacious perverse pigheaded refractory relentless restive self-willed strong-minded unalterable unflinching unmanageable

Antonyms

STRONGEST

amenable flexible obedient pliant soft submissive surrendering willing yielding

STRONG

irresolute

WEAK

agreeable cooperative helpful

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"Just an obstinate love of being on stage and performing," Banks answered.

From BBC • Apr. 29, 2026

Her critical “confidence . . . is thrillingly anachronistic: obstinate, sure, but warming, too.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 26, 2025

The guard was obstinate in refusing to provide one.

From Salon • Aug. 21, 2025

He excelled at convincing even the obstinate to trust him.

From Los Angeles Times • May 12, 2024

“Why does that obstinate little voice in our heads torment us so?” he said, looking round the table.

From "The Secret History" by Donna Tartt

Vocabulary lists containing obstinate

The SAT: Words to Capture Tone, List 4

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The New SAT: Words to Capture Tone

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List 8

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!