What does mulishly mean?
Mulishly means in a stubborn, sullen, or unyielding way, especially when someone refuses to cooperate, reconsider an opinion, or respond constructively. The adverb is commonly used to describe a person's manner: they may listen mulishly, answer mulishly, or remain mulishly silent. It implies more than ordinary firmness because it suggests resistance accompanied by displeasure or a refusal to engage. Mulishly is more formal and more pointed than simply “stubbornly,” and it often appears in accounts of arguments, interviews, negotiations, and public disputes. The word derives from “mulish,” meaning mule-like, and reflects the traditional image of the mule as an animal renowned for obstinacy. Although sometimes used humorously, it is generally critical and can convey exasperation at someone's behaviour.
adverbIn a stubborn, sullen, or unyielding manner, especially in refusing to cooperate or change one's opinion.
- In a stubborn, sullen, or unyielding manner, especially when refusing to cooperate.
"She listened mulishly to the explanation but refused to apologize."
"The witness answered mulishly, repeating that he had seen nothing."
"Rather than discuss the problem further, she turned away mulishly."
Mulishly takes its vivid image from the mule, the proverbial symbol of stubborn resistance: being “mulish” means acting like nothing can move you.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does mulishly come from?
The adverb was formed from the adjective “mulish,” which in turn derives from “mule” with the suffix -ish. “Mule” comes through Old French from Latin, where the animal was associated metaphorically with stubbornness. The development of “mulish” therefore uses the mule's traditional reputation for obstinacy to describe uncooperative human behaviour.
Related word forms
How mulishly is actually used
Mulishly is somewhat literary and carries a stronger sense of sullen obstruction than merely acting stubbornly. It is mainly used for attitudes or behaviour that obstruct communication, agreement, or persuasion.