Recalcitrant

Recalcitrant describes someone who is stubbornly resistant to authority or control. It suggests a defiant unwillingness to obey orders or accept guidance. The term often implies a willful opposition, a refusal to be managed or directed, and a generally uncooperative attitude. While it can be used to describe inanimate objects (e.g., a recalcitrant engine), it's most commonly applied to people, particularly children, employees, or those in positions of subordination where obedience is expected. The resistance is often seen as unreasonable or unnecessary, highlighting the individual's stubbornness and unwillingness to comply with accepted norms or rules. It is a relatively strong term, implying a consistent pattern of resistance rather than isolated instances of disobedience.

Recalcitrant meaning with examples

• The recalcitrant student refused to follow the teacher's instructions, disrupting the class with his constant talking and disruptive behavior.
• Despite repeated warnings, the recalcitrant employee continued to disregard company policy, resulting in a formal disciplinary hearing and eventual termination.
• The rescue team struggled to extract the recalcitrant donkey from the muddy ditch, as it stubbornly resisted all their efforts to pull it free.
• The political party faced a recalcitrant faction within its ranks, which continuously obstructed the passage of key legislation and proposed reforms.