Definition

The quality of being stubborn and refusing to change one's mind or opinion, even when it may be unreasonable to do so.

Example

His pigheadedness often led to arguments with his friends.

Conversation

I think his pigheadedness really gets in the way of progress.

Yeah, sometimes he just won't listen to anyone else.

It's frustrating because he has some good ideas, but his pigheadedness holds him back.

Exactly! If he could just be more open-minded, things would improve.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pigheadedness → It is formed from "pig" (from Old English "picga", meaning a young pig) and "headedness" (from "head" meaning the top or front part of something, combined with the suffix "-ness" which indicates a state or quality). The term describes the quality of being stubborn or obstinate, likening such behavior to the perceived stubbornness of a pig.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'pig' representing stubbornness and 'headedness' indicating a state of being. This helps you remember that 'pigheadedness' refers to the quality of being stubborn.

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