Unmalleable

Unmalleable describes a substance or object's resistance to being reshaped, molded, or hammered into a new form. It signifies an inherent inflexibility or a lack of plasticity, meaning that the material will fracture, crack, or break rather than deform under pressure. This characteristic stems from the molecular structure of the material, preventing atoms from sliding past each other, a key feature of metals capable of being reshaped without breaking. The term can also be applied figuratively to describe individuals or situations resistant to influence, change, or persuasion, reflecting a rigid and uncompromising nature.

Unmalleable meaning with examples

• The sculptor found the granite block completely unmalleable. No amount of chiseling or force could alter its fundamental shape, forcing him to abandon his ambitious design for a flowing, curved form and to settle for a simpler, more angular sculpture. The granite’s crystalline structure prevented any flex, frustrating his artistic vision, and the pressure exerted caused chipping and fracturing, which eventually resulted in the rejection of the stone.
• The company's old business model had become unmalleable, failing to adapt to the fast-paced changes in the digital landscape. Attempts to introduce new technologies and customer-centric strategies met with staunch resistance from long-tenured executives, rooted in outdated perspectives, making any real progress towards market leadership very difficult. This inflexible approach left the company vulnerable to more agile and innovative competitors, with no real way to modernize and adapt to market demand.
• Despite constant negotiation attempts, the country's stance on the controversial treaty remained unmalleable. Diplomats found the leader of the nation unwavering, unable to negotiate any concessions, even in the face of mounting international pressure and potential economic sanctions. Any shift in the nation’s position seemed impossible, so any resolution to the conflict would require drastic changes to the situation.
• The heavy clay, when dried, becomes unmalleable. The potter discovered that without the addition of water and working it for a length of time, they could not sculpt it into the desired shape. It will fracture at any attempts to make the clay more flexible. Any attempt to change its form will lead to it crumbling or splitting instead of bending or forming a desired shape and structure.