recalcitrant
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /rɪˈkæl.sɪ.trənt/
KK: /rɪˈkæl.sɪ.trənt/
adjective
Definition
This word describes someone or something that is stubbornly resistant to control or authority, often refusing to follow rules or guidance.
Example
The recalcitrant student refused to follow the teacher's instructions during the class.
Conversation
Did you hear about the new student in our class?
Yeah, I heard he’s a bit recalcitrant with the teachers.
That’s what I thought! He never seems to follow the rules.
I wonder how they'll handle someone so recalcitrant.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
unruly
defiant
obstinate
Antonyms
compliant
submissive
docile
noun
Definition
A person who is stubbornly resistant to authority or control.
Example
The recalcitrant student refused to follow the teacher's instructions.
Conversation
Have you heard about that new student in our class?
Yeah, I heard they can be quite a recalcitrant person.
It seems like they're always challenging the teacher's rules.
Root Explanation
Recalcitrant → It is formed from "re-" (meaning back or again) and "calcitrare" (meaning to kick). The word describes someone who kicks back or resists authority, hence being stubborn or uncooperative.
Memory Tip
Think of someone who kicks back ('calcitrare') against rules or authority, which helps you remember that 'recalcitrant' means resistant or stubborn.
Visually Confused Words
calcitrant
calcitrate
reactant