die-hard
UK: ˈdaɪ hɑːd | US: ˈdaɪ hɑːrd
n. a person who stubbornly resists change or clings to a past era or tradition
adj. stubbornly resistant to change or unwavering in loyalty
The term originated in the early 19th century, originally describing soldiers who would "die hard" (fight stubbornly to the end) in battle. By the mid-1800s, it evolved metaphorically to describe anyone unyielding in their beliefs or habits. The morpheme "die" preserves its literal meaning of cessation of life, while "hard" emphasizes rigidity or steadfastness. Together, they paint a vivid image of unshakable resolve.
Despite technological advances, he remains a die-hard fan of vinyl records.
The die-hard supporters refused to abandon their team even during a losing season.
She’s a die-hard traditionalist who still writes letters by hand.
The rebel troops were die-hard fighters, resisting until their last breath.
His die-hard attitude made compromise impossible during negotiations.