Definition

A stubborn refusal to obey or comply with authority, especially in a legal context.

Example

The defendant's contumacy led to a contempt of court charge.

Conversation

Did you hear about the case where the defendant showed such contumacy in court?

Yeah, I read about that! It's crazy how some people refuse to listen to the judge.

I know, right? It just makes everything more complicated for everyone involved.

Absolutely! It’s frustrating to see that kind of stubbornness.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Contumacy → It is formed from "contumax" (meaning stubborn or rebellious) and the suffix "-acy" (indicating a state or quality). The word "contumacy" refers to the state of being stubbornly disobedient or rebellious, particularly in a legal context.

Memory Tip

Think of someone being 'stubborn' ('contumax') and in a 'state' ('-acy') of disobedience — that's what contumacy means.

Visually Confused Words