Recalcitrant

Adjective

Definition: Stubbornly disobedient to authority or control.

Synonyms: Defiant, Rebellious, Insubordinate

Antonyms: Obedient, Compliant, Submissive

Examples:

The recalcitrant student refused to follow the teacher's instructions.
The recalcitrant employee consistently disregarded company policies.

Mnemonics:

Think of "re" as "repeat" and "calcitrant" as "calculation," so a recalcitrant person repeats their resistance to authority.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "recalcitrant" comes from the Latin word "recalcitrare," which means "to kick back" or "to behave in a stubborn manner."

Historical Usage:

"Recalcitrant" has been in use since the mid-19th century to describe individuals or groups who resist or defy authority.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Recalcitrant behavior"

Explanation:

Referring to someone's persistent disobedience or resistance to authority or control.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "recalcitrant" with "insubordinate."

Explanation:

While "recalcitrant" and "insubordinate" can be used interchangeably in some contexts, "recalcitrant" emphasizes a more stubborn and persistent resistance. "Insubordinate" generally refers to a specific act of defiance or disobedience rather than an overall trait.