Refractory
Adjective
Definition: Stubbornly resistant to control or authority; unmanageable.
Definition: Resistant to the flow of electric current, heat, or other forms of energy.
Synonyms: Stubborn, Unmanageable, Intractable, Recalcitrant, Obstinate
Antonyms: Compliant, Obedient, Manageable
- The refractory child refused to do his homework.
- The refractory material did not conduct electricity efficiently.
- Think of a child being resistant and stubborn, like a refractory material.
Etymology:
The word "refractory" comes from the Latin word "refractarius," which means stubborn or obstinate.
Historical Usage:The term has been used since the early 17th century to describe both stubborn individuals and materials with resistance to heat or electricity.
Related Idioms:
"Refractory period"
Explanation:Refers to a physiological recovery phase after a sexual response, during which a person or organism becomes temporarily less sensitive to further stimulation.
Misconceptions:
Confusing "refractory" with "reflectory."
Explanation:"Refractory" refers to being stubborn, while "reflectory" relates to reflection or reflex actions. They are different words with different meanings.