Stubborn Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Psychology

• Stubbornness can sometimes be a defense mechanism where individuals resist change due to fear of the unknown.
• Research suggests that stubborn people might cope with stress by adhering to their beliefs, providing them comfort.
• The trait of being stubborn is often linked to personality aspects like conscientiousness and low agreeableness.

Pop Culture

• Stubborn characters are common in literature and film, often portrayed as strong-willed heroes or adversaries, like Katniss Everdeen in 'The Hunger Games.'
• The song 'Stubborn Love' by The Lumineers talks about the conflicts that arise from stubborn relationships.
• Animated characters like the lovable donkey Eeyore from 'Winnie the Pooh' demonstrate stubbornness in a humorous, yet endearing way.

Sociology

• Cultural perspectives on stubbornness vary; in some societies, being steadfast and unwavering is viewed positively, as showing determination.
• In contrast, in more collectivist cultures, stubbornness may be seen as a negative trait, suggesting a lack of cooperation.
• Debates often arise around stubbornness in families or workplaces, where individuals might value persistence differently.

Animals

• Mules and donkeys are often seen as the epitome of stubbornness, as they are known for their refusal to move under certain conditions.
• Certain dog breeds, like the bulldog or basset hound, exhibit stubborn behavior, prompting specialized training approaches.
• Stubbornness in the animal kingdom can sometimes be a survival strategy, where certain species refuse to back down from threats.

Main points about word origin

• The word 'stubborn' comes from the Old French 'estourber,' meaning to resist or to stand firm.
• It has roots in the Latin word 'stupere,' which means to be dull or to be astonished, reflecting a sense of immovable attitude.
• Stubborn has been used in the English language since the late 14th century, showing its long-standing relevance.

The word 'stubborn' originated from the Middle English word 'stuborn', which meant 'difficult to move'. It has been in use since the 14th century. The term evolved over time to describe a person's unyielding or inflexible nature. Synonyms like 'obstinate' and 'inflexible' further emphasize the trait of being stubborn.

See also: stubbornly, stubbornness.

Ranked #10,099, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

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