Definition

The condition of being stubbornly resistant to authority or control, often refusing to obey rules or follow orders.

Example

His recalcitrance made it difficult for the teacher to manage the classroom effectively.

Conversation

I noticed some recalcitrance in his behavior during the meeting.

Yeah, he always seems to resist following the rules.

It can be frustrating when someone shows such recalcitrance in a team setting.

Definitely! It makes it harder for everyone to work together.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Recalcitrance → It is formed from "re-" (meaning back or again) and "calcitrare" (meaning to kick). The word describes a state of being resistant or stubbornly refusing to obey or comply, as if kicking back against authority.

Memory Tip

Think of someone kicking back ('calcitrare') against rules or authority, which helps you remember that recalcitrance means stubborn resistance.

Visually Confused Words