What does pigheadedly mean?
Pigheadedly means in an obstinate, self-opinionated way, especially without regard for advice or evidence that one may be wrong. The adverb is formed from the adjective pig-headed and carries a distinctly negative connotation: it characterizes conduct as foolishly stubborn rather than merely resolute. It is commonly used when describing a person or group that presses forward with a position despite convincing objections, repeated warnings, or clear contrary evidence. The word appears in both British and American English but is informal and generally derogatory, making it more appropriate for expressive commentary than for neutral description. Although pigheadedly can describe intense determination, its usual implication is that the determination is unreasonable and self-defeating. For example, rejecting a sound proposal merely because it differs from a preferred idea is to do so pigheadedly. In less critical contexts, the word can serve as a humorous or rhetorical label for unyielding behavior, but it is rarely neutral praise.
adverbIn an obstinately self-opinionated manner; stubbornly refusing to consider advice or accept that one may be wrong.
- In an obstinately or stupidly stubborn manner, refusing to heed advice or acknowledge that one may be wrong.
"The committee pigheadedly rejected the proposal without allowing further discussion."
"He pigheadedly continued arguing despite clear evidence that his position was untenable."
"The council pigheadedly insisted on its original plan without considering the objections raised by local residents."
When logic gets nowhere, pigheadedly describes the moment stubbornness takes the wheel.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does pigheadedly come from?
The English compound pig-headed combines pig with the participial adjective headed and is attested from the early 17th century in the sense of obstinate or stupidly stubborn. Its formation was probably influenced by the traditional image of pigs as unruly animals that resist direction. The adverb pigheadedly was later formed from pig-headed by adding the suffix -ly, converting the adjective into a manner adverb.
Related word forms
How pigheadedly is actually used
This is an informal, generally derogatory word used in both British and American English. Its strong connotation is that the person is not merely determined but stubbornly unwilling to reconsider.
Easily confused with pigheadedly
Pig-headed is the adjective describing a stubborn or self-opinionated person, while pigheadedly is the adverb describing how that person acts.