Want to say recalcitrant differently? Here are other words for recalcitrant and its similar synonyms and opposite words to say in unique way.
Meaning of recalcitrant
The primary meaning of the word "recalcitrant" is having an unwillingness to obey or comply with authority.
Etymology of recalcitrant
The word "recalcitrant" originates from the Latin word "recalcitrare," which means "to kick back" and is a combination of "re-" (meaning "back" or "again") and "calcitrare" (meaning "to kick"), with the suffix "-ant" forming an adjective
Historically, the term was first used in the 17th century to describe a person or animal that kicks back or resists control
Synonyms
obstinate
stubborn
uncooperative
defiant
refractory
disobedient
unruly
intractable
contrary
headstrong
pigheaded
mulish
obstreperous
rebellious
recusant
resistant
unmanageable
uncontrollable
incorrigible
intransigent
inflexible
rigid
unyielding
obdurate
implacable
unrelenting
dogged
persistent
uncompliant
noncompliant
resistant
dissenting
disagreeable
Definitions
- Having an unwillingness to obey or comply with authority
- Difficult to control or manage
- Stubbornly resistant to control or opposition
Usage Examples
- The recalcitrant child refused to eat his vegetables, throwing a tantrum instead
- The company is dealing with a recalcitrant employee who refuses to follow the new protocol
- The recalcitrant horse kicked back against the rider, making it difficult to control
Antonyms
compliant
obedient
cooperative
docile
submissive
yielding
amenable
accommodating
flexible
pliable
tractable
manageable
controllable
obedient
dutiful
Obedient
compliant
acquiescent
submissive
deferential
meek
mild
biddable
governable