as in stubbornness
a steadfast adherence to an opinion, purpose, or course of action in spite of reason, arguments, or persuasion
the mindless obstinacy of those people who continue to insist that the earth is flat
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 obstinacy
The Korean experience also suggests that the obstinacy of Russian President Vladimir Putin—who, like Stalin, seems averse to compromise of any kind—could be especially obstructive.
—
Carter Malkasian, Foreign Affairs, 20 June 2023
People talk a lot about artificial intelligence but not enough about artificial obstinacy.
—David Brooks, The Mercury News, 10 Apr. 2024
In 2015, their nuclear perseverance and obstinacy even compelled Barack Obama to sign an agreement accepting Iran’s status as a nuclear-threshold state, i.e., a state that can assemble a weapon in short order.
—Christian Schneider, National Review, 21 Dec. 2023
Christie has been an immovable object, resisting all entreaties with characteristic obstinacy and swearing to remain in the race until New Hampshire.
—Varad Mehta, Washington Examiner, 28 Dec. 2023
See all Example Sentences for obstinacy 
Carter Malkasian, Foreign Affairs, 20 June 2023
People talk a lot about artificial intelligence but not enough about artificial obstinacy.
—David Brooks, The Mercury News, 10 Apr. 2024
In 2015, their nuclear perseverance and obstinacy even compelled Barack Obama to sign an agreement accepting Iran’s status as a nuclear-threshold state, i.e., a state that can assemble a weapon in short order.
—Christian Schneider, National Review, 21 Dec. 2023
Christie has been an immovable object, resisting all entreaties with characteristic obstinacy and swearing to remain in the race until New Hampshire.
—Varad Mehta, Washington Examiner, 28 Dec. 2023
See all Example Sentences for obstinacy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for obstinacy
Noun
-
For the second straight season, Mahomes has done so largely due to his persistence, problem-solving ability and willingness to adjust his playing style to any game’s specific circumstances.—
Nate Taylor,
The Athletic,
17 Jan. 2025
-
The persistence of market failure and agency expertise narratives, despite political failures and bureaucratic ineptitude being the true obstacles.—
Clyde Wayne Crews Jr.,
Forbes,
12 Jan. 2025
Noun
-
The tannins are well structured yet soft and the wine has great persistency in the finish.—
Mike DeSimone and Jeff Jenssen,
Robb Report,
2 May 2023
-
Dan recalled of his daughter’s persistency.—
Eric Sondheimer Columnist,
Los Angeles Times,
21 Dec. 2020
Noun
-
Many agencies’ missions are associated with liberal or progressive causes, and conservatives who favor small government or deregulation have historically expressed frustration about the intransigence or even existence of the federal bureaucracy.—
Jeannie Suk Gersen,
The New Yorker,
16 Jan. 2025
-
That bonus pool is growing to almost $3million (£2.4m) from just over $1m. Add it all up and there is no shortage of intransigence and little room for optimism.—
Matthew Futterman,
The Athletic,
2 Jan. 2025
Noun
-
Related: ‘Neglected diseases’ are anything but neglected by the billion-plus people living with them One possible reason for this obduracy is that noma begins as a dental disease, and dental diseases have long been underappreciated global health concerns.—
John Button,
STAT,
16 Dec. 2023
-
Andreas blames the obduracy of U.S. politicians and bureaucrats for the persistence of the drug wars, despite their evident failure and their huge financial and human costs.—
Russell Crandall,
Foreign Affairs,
20 Apr. 2021
Noun
-
Without treatment, most cases of diarrhea related to alcohol use resolve in one to three days.—
Jay N. Yepuri,
Verywell Health,
23 Jan. 2025
-
While the recovery process hasn't been easy, Austin's resolve is as strong as ever.—
Raul A. Reyes,
Newsweek,
22 Jan. 2025
Noun
-
These systems are considered substantial factors in making determinations that affect access to critical opportunities like employment, healthcare, or financial services.—
Alonzo Martinez,
Forbes,
17 Jan. 2025
-
The video, filmed in Nashville, Tennessee, reveals a heartwarming display of feline determination and charm.—
Yaakov Katz,
Newsweek,
17 Jan. 2025
Thesaurus Entries Near obstinacy
Cite this Entry
“Obstinacy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/obstinacy. Accessed 30 Jan. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share