In an age of polarized debates and dug-in opinions, obdurate feels more relevant than ever.
It’s the word that captures our cultural stalemates: firm, unmovable, sometimes admirable and often frustrating.
What makes this uncommon word so powerful — and why does it feel sharper than simply calling someone “stubborn”?
Here’s what you need to know about the word “obdurate” so you can start using it today.
What is the definition of ‘obdurate’?
The word “obdurate” is an adjective that describes the act of stubbornly refusing to change one’s opinion or course of action.
It also is an adjective to describe someone who is resistant to persuasion, emotionally tough, insensitive or numb.
How is the word ‘obdurate’ pronounced?
The word “obdurate” is pronounced /AAB-dr-uht/.
How can you use ‘obdurate’ in a sentence?
- Despite repeated warnings about the storm, the hikers remained obdurate and refused to turn back.
- The mayor’s obdurate refusal to address the budget crisis drew widespread criticism.
- My cat was obdurate in her demand for breakfast at 4 a.m., ignoring all attempts at compromise.
What is the origin of the word ‘obdurate’?
The word “obdurate” comes from Middle English, and is borrowed from the Late Latin “obdūrātus.”
It is the Latin past participle of “obdūrāre,” which means “to harden, be persistent or hold out,” according to Merriam-Webster.
Its first known usage in the English language was in the 15th century.
What historical figure quoted the word ‘obdurate’?
Fans of horror writer Stephen King might recognize a quote of his from the 1960s.
“The past is obdurate,” he says.
‘ The preceding article may include information circulated by third parties ’
‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source www.nj.com ’
