Obdurate
hardNegative toneOB-doo-rit
adjective
Definition
Stubbornly refusing to change one's opinion or course of action
Memory hook
OB-DURE-ATE: hardened AGAINST change — stubbornly unyielding like something DURABLE.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The obdurate negotiator refused all compromise.”
“Despite pleas, she remained obdurate in her decision.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The ______ negotiator refused all compromise.”
Show answer
obdurate
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Obdurate is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "intransigent" or "unyielding" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "flexible".
Related GRE Words
intransigent
Unwilling or refusing to change one's views or agree; uncompromising
obstinate
Stubbornly refusing to change one's opinion or course of action
unyielding
Not giving way to pressure; firm and resolute
adamant
Refusing to be persuaded or to change one's mind; unyielding
dogmatic
Inclined to lay down principles as incontrovertibly true
ossify
To become rigid or fixed in attitude, opinion, or habit
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