dogmatic

UK: dɒɡˈmætɪk | US: dɑːɡˈmætɪk

Definition

  1. adj. 1. Asserting opinions in an arrogant or authoritative manner; inflexibly doctrinal.

  2. adj. 2. Relating to or characteristic of dogma (a fixed set of principles).

Structure
dog <opinion (from Greek *doxa*) + mat<related to learning (from Greek *mat-*) + ic<adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word dogmatic traces back to Greek dogmatikos, derived from dogma (opinion/decree), which itself comes from dokein (to seem/to think). The root dog- reflects rigid belief, while -matic (via Greek -matikos) denotes systematic learning. Over time, the term evolved from "philosophically doctrinal" to its modern sense of "uncompromisingly authoritative."

Examples

  1. His dogmatic refusal to consider alternatives frustrated the team.

  2. The professor’s dogmatic lectures left no room for debate.

  3. Religious dogmatic teachings often resist reinterpretation.

  4. She criticized the policy as overly dogmatic and impractical.

  5. Scientific progress thrives when dogmatic thinking is challenged.