Definition

Describing someone or something that is very rigid, narrow-minded, or unwilling to change their opinions or ideas.

Example

His hidebound views on education made it difficult for him to accept new teaching methods.

Conversation

I think some people are really hidebound when it comes to new ideas.

Totally! They just won't consider anything outside their comfort zone.

It's frustrating because innovation often comes from thinking differently.

Exactly! We need more open-mindedness in today's world.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hidebound is formed from "hide" (from Old English "hīd", meaning skin or hide) and "bound" (from Old English "bund", meaning tied or bound). The term originally described someone who is rigidly tied to traditional ways, much like a hide that is bound tightly.

Memory Tip

Think of someone whose ideas are 'tied' ('bound') to old 'skins' ('hide') — that's why hidebound means being stuck in old ways.

Visually Confused Words