Definition

In a way that shows stubborn resistance to authority or control.

Example

The student contumaciously refused to follow the teacher's instructions.

Conversation

Did you see how he argued contumaciously in the meeting today?

Yeah, it was kind of surprising to see him act like that.

I know! He really didn’t care about the consequences at all.

Right? It's like he enjoys being difficult sometimes.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Contumaciously → It is formed from "contumax" (meaning stubborn or rebellious) and the suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner). The word describes acting in a stubbornly disobedient or rebellious manner.

Memory Tip

Think of someone acting in a 'stubborn' way ('contumax') — that's why contumaciously means behaving rebelliously.

Visually Confused Words