hardheaded
UK: ˌhɑːdˈhedɪd | US: ˌhɑːrdˈhedɪd
adj. stubborn; unwilling to change one's opinion
adj. practical and realistic; not influenced by emotions
The word "hardheaded" combines "hard" (from Old English "heard," meaning physically or mentally tough) and "head" (from Old English "hēafod," symbolizing the mind or intellect). The suffix "-ed" turns it into an adjective. Originally, it described someone with a literal "hard head" (resistant to blows), but by the 16th century, it evolved metaphorically to mean stubbornness or pragmatic thinking. The dual meanings reflect both obstinacy and level-headedness, depending on context.
The hardheaded negotiator refused to compromise on the terms.
Her hardheaded approach to finances saved the company from bankruptcy.
Don’t be so hardheaded—consider other perspectives.
His hardheaded realism often clashed with his team’s idealism.
Despite their hardheaded reputation, the engineers solved the problem creatively.