obstinacy

UK: ˈɒbstɪnəsi | US: ˈɑːbstɪnəsi

Definition

  1. n. the quality of being stubborn or refusing to change one's opinion or course of action

Structure
obstin <stubborn>acy <noun suffix>obstin <stubborn>acy <noun suffix>
Etymology

The word traces back to Latin obstinatus, combining ob- (against) + stinare (related to stare, "to stand"). It originally conveyed standing firm against opposition, evolving into the modern sense of stubbornness. The suffix -acy was later added in English to nominalize the adjective "obstinate."

Examples

  1. Her obstinacy made negotiations impossible.

  2. Despite the evidence, he clung to his opinion with obstinacy.

  3. The team’s obstinacy led to their downfall.

  4. Obstinacy can sometimes be mistaken for strength.

  5. His obstinacy in refusing help frustrated everyone.