First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
inflexible
adjective in·flex·i·ble \(ˌ)in-ˈflek-sə-bəl\
: not easily influenced or persuaded
: not easily bent or twisted
: not easily changed
Full Definition of INFLEXIBLE
1
: rigidly firm in will or purpose : unyielding
2
: not readily bent : lacking or deficient in suppleness
3
: incapable of change : unalterable
— in·flex·i·bil·i·ty \-ˌflek-sə-ˈbi-lə-tē\ noun
— in·flex·i·ble·ness \-ˈflek-sə-bəl-nəs\ noun
— in·flex·i·bly \-blē\ adverb
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Origin of INFLEXIBLE
Middle English, from Latin inflexibilis, from in- + flexibilis flexible
Related to INFLEXIBLE
- Synonyms
- fixed, hard-and-fast, immutable, inalterable, incommutable, invariable, unalterable, unchangeable
Synonym Discussion of INFLEXIBLE
inflexible, obdurate, adamant mean unwilling to alter a predetermined course or purpose. inflexible implies rigid adherence or even slavish conformity to principle <inflexible in their demands>. obdurate stresses hardness of heart and insensitivity to appeals for mercy or the influence of divine grace <obdurate in his refusal to grant clemency>. adamant implies utter immovability in the face of all temptation or entreaty <adamant that the work should continue>.
synonyms see in addition stiff
INFLEXIBILITY Defined for Kids
inflexible
adjective in·flex·i·ble \in-ˈflek-sə-bəl\
Definition of INFLEXIBLE for Kids
1
: not easily bent or twisted
2
: not easily influenced or persuaded <an inflexible judge>
3
: not easily changed <inflexible rules>
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