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Obduracy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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obduracy

[หˆรคb-dyษ™-rษ™-sฤ“ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

stubbornness in attitude

Obduracy refers to an unwillingness to change oneโ€™s mind or a refusal to soften oneโ€™s attitudes, especially regarding moral issues. This term often suggests a callousness or hard-heartedness, where an individual remains steadfast in their views despite opposition or valid reasons to reconsider. It can be applied to situations in personal relationships, politics, and various debates where inflexibility is prevalent.

Synonyms

adamance, intransigence, obstinacy, stubbornness, unyieldingness.

Examples of usage

  • His obduracy in refusing to apologize caused a rift in their friendship.
  • The leader's obduracy led to protests against his policies.
  • Despite evidence to the contrary, her obduracy compelled her to stick to her original claim.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Stubbornness, linked with obduracy, can be rooted in personal identity and a person's need for consistency.
  • People often display obdurate traits in conflicts where deep beliefs are challenged, making resolution difficult.
  • Obduracy can manifest as a defense mechanism, protecting individuals from feelings of vulnerability.

Literature

  • Obduracy appears in classic literature to describe characters resistant to change, often leading to their downfall.
  • In Shakespeare's works, several characters exhibit obdurate traits, demonstrating the tension between personal desires and societal norms.
  • The theme of obdurate love or loyalty is prevalent in many romantic narratives, showcasing how stubbornness can both unite and divide.

Pop Culture

  • The term can be likened to characters in movies or TV shows who refuse to change, often creating dramatic tension in the plot.
  • In animated films, characters with obdurate personalities are usually depicted as comically stubborn, providing humor to the storyline.
  • Music often features themes of obduracy, where songs express the pain and pride of holding onto beliefs against opposition.

Social Dynamics

  • Obduracy can influence group dynamics, as steadfast individuals may lead others to either follow or rebel against strong convictions.
  • In negotiations, one party's obdurate stance can lead to stalemates, highlighting the importance of flexibility in collaboration.
  • Cultural values can reinforce obduracy, with some societies venerating strong-willed individuals as symbols of integrity and strength.

Origin of 'obduracy'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'obduratus', meaning 'hardened' or 'to harden'.
  • It is related to other words like 'durable', which also conveys a sense of being tough or unyielding.
  • Old French influenced the term, with 'obdurรฉ' carrying similar meanings of toughness and resilience.

The term 'obduracy' originates from the Latin word 'obdurare', which means 'to be hard or stubborn'. This Latin root is formed by the prefix 'ob-', meaning 'against', combined with 'durare', meaning 'to last or endure'. The evolution of the term moved through the Old French 'obduracitรฉ', before making its way into Middle English. By the 15th century, 'obduracy' appeared in English literature, often with connotations of moral strictness and a refusal to adapt one's viewpoint. Over centuries, the meaning has maintained its core essence, emphasizing the idea of inflexibility and resistance to change, particularly in ethical or emotional contexts.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,187 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.