What does obstinate mean?
Obstinate means stubbornly refusing to change one's mind, abandon a course of action, or yield to pressure. It describes both unreasonable resistance and determined persistence, so its connotation depends largely on context: an obstinate argument may frustrate listeners, while obstinate efforts or principles may command respect. The word is common in formal and neutral English in Britain and the United States and is especially useful when describing a person, an attitude, or an action marked by firmness and unyielding resolve. It is related in meaning and origin to obstinacy, the noun for stubbornness or excessive persistence, and to obstinately, the adverb. Obstinate ultimately comes through Latin obstinatus, from obstinare, meaning to persist or remain firmly resolved.
adjectiveStubbornly refusing to change one's opinion, attitude, or course of action. It can also describe a persistent and unyielding resistance to obstacles or demands.
- Stubbornly refusing to change one's opinion, attitude, or intended course of action.
- Persistent and unyielding in the face of resistance, difficulty, or entreaty.
"Despite repeated warnings, the obstinate teenager refused to apologize."
"The committee remained obstinate despite persuasive evidence that the old system was failing."
"Her obstinate pursuit of accuracy earned the respect of her colleagues."
Obstinate comes from a Latin word meaning “to persist,” a reminder that stubbornness can be either a virtue or a vice, depending on what is being persisted in.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does obstinate come from?
Obstinate entered English in the early 17th century from Latin obstinatus, a participle meaning firmly resolved or stubborn. The Latin word was formed from obstinare, “to persist,” from ob- and a root associated with standing or being set in place. Its Latin relatives include obstinatio, meaning obstinacy or persistence, and the English cognate obstinacy, developed along the same semantic line.
Related word forms
How obstinate is actually used
The word is usually formal or neutral and often suggests stubbornness that others may regard as unreasonable. It can also describe admirable persistence, especially in contexts involving principles, difficult work, or defending a position.