as in stubborn
sticking to an opinion, purpose, or course of action in spite of reason, arguments, or persuasion
the child was obstinate about wanting that specific toy, despite being offered several others
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of obstinate
As Bob throws a tantrum with the resistance’s obstinate operator, Sensei procures a rifle for Bob too.
—
Robert Daniels, Time, 10 Oct. 2025
The other parents in Julianna’s comments had a similarly good sense of humor about how weaning an obstinate toddler can sometimes feel like negotiating with a dictator.
—Elisabeth Sherman, Parents, 11 Sep. 2025
There’s something admirable, in an obstinate way, about Coen choosing to make lesbian B-movies that clock in at under 90 minutes as his first and second solo features following his creative split with Joel in 2018.
—Daniel Bromfield, Mercury News, 29 Aug. 2025
Our investor was obstinate, the seller was impatient, and my team was exhausted.
—Pankaj Vasani, Forbes.com, 22 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for obstinate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for obstinate
Adjective
-
These two ingredients mixed together creates a powerful mixture perfect for lifting stubborn stains off grout because of their high cleaning and brightening properties.—
-
The vinegar cleaning method isn’t foolproof, and sometimes stubborn residue can remain on your microwave walls.—
Adjective
-
Stephen Miller made these comments on CNN and was adamant that this would happen.—
-
Although the film would have been far easier to finance if the production took place in another country, Hadi was adamant about shooting in his homeland.—
Cite this Entry
“Obstinate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/obstinate. Accessed 12 Jan. 2026.
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share