Definition

The quality of being hard and unyielding, similar to flint, often used to describe a person's character or demeanor.

Example

Her flintiness made her a tough negotiator in business deals.

Conversation

Have you ever noticed the flintiness of some people's personalities?

Yeah, I have! It can be quite tough to deal with sometimes.

I guess it just makes them more resilient, right?

Absolutely, but it can also create some distance in relationships.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Flintiness is formed from "flint" (from Old English *flint*, meaning a hard stone used to produce fire) and the suffix "-iness" (meaning the quality of being). The word "flintiness" refers to the quality of being like flint, particularly in hardness or toughness.

Memory Tip

Think of the hard stone 'flint' that creates sparks, and remember that 'flintiness' describes the quality of being hard or tough like flint.

Visually Confused Words