recalcitrant
adjective
Having an obstinately uncooperative attitude toward authority or discipline.
Etymology
From Latin recalcitrant-, from re- "back" + calcitrare "to kick," from calx "heel." Literally "kicking back."
Examples in Use
- 1.
"The recalcitrant employee refused to follow new procedures."
- 2.
"Recalcitrant tumors resist standard treatment."
- 3.
"The recalcitrant donkey wouldn't budge."
Related Vocabulary
Synonyms
Related Words
Fun Fact
Recalcitrant literally means "kicking back"—like a stubborn mule. The image captures willful resistance, not just passive non-compliance. In medicine, recalcitrant describes conditions that resist treatment.
Word Game Tips
Letters: 12 letters (R, E, C, A, L, C, I, T, R, A, N, T)
Scrabble Value: 16 points
Tip: Look for common letter combinations like "RE" at the start of words.
Put Your Vocabulary to the Test!
Ready to find words like "recalcitrant" in a puzzle? Try today's Zabble challenge!