What does mulish mean?
Mulish is a formal adjective meaning stubborn, obstinate, and unwilling to move or cooperate. It is especially evocative because it is associated with mules, animals traditionally regarded as difficult to persuade or control. The word can describe a person's resistance to change, an animal refusing to move, or an organization resisting compromise. Its tone is more literary and colorful than that of common alternatives such as stubborn or unwilling, and it may imply a combination of firmness and frustration. In everyday use, “mulish” often suggests someone who is not merely holding a strong opinion but refusing to reconsider. The related adverb “mulishly” describes behaviour in that determined, uncooperative way, while “mulishness” names the quality itself.
adjectiveStubborn or unwilling to move, act, or accept a different course of action. The word often suggests a person or animal being difficult to persuade or control.
- Stubborn or unwilling to move, act, or accept a different course of action.
- Resembling or behaving like a mule, especially in being difficult to manage or control.
"The mule remained mulish, refusing to move despite the farmer's efforts."
"The team adopted a mulish attitude toward the proposed changes."
"With a stubborn jaw and a mulish expression, the horse refused to enter the stable."
Mulish takes its stubbornness straight from the mule: a word for a creature famously difficult to persuade or control.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does mulish come from?
Mulish developed in the early 17th century from mule and the suffix -ish, meaning “like a mule.” The association reflects the mule's traditional reputation for stubbornness and resistance to direction. The word belongs to a wider family that includes mule and muleteer, both of which share the same animal-based root.
Related word forms
How mulish is actually used
Usually formal or literary. It can describe people, animals, and, by extension, organizations or attitudes, where it conveys persistent resistance or unwillingness to compromise.
Easily confused with mulish
Mulish means stubborn or unwilling to act, whereas mulescent means resembling a mule, especially in appearance or stubbornness.