inflexible

in·flex·i·ble

adj \(ˌ)in-ˈflek-sə-bəl\

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

Examples of INFLEXIBLE

1. <the inflexible law of gravity>
2. <shoes made of inflexible plastic hurt my feet>

Origin of INFLEXIBLE

Middle English, from Latin inflexibilis, from in- + flexibilis flexible

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to INFLEXIBLE

Synonyms: fixed, hard-and-fast, immutable, inalterable, incommutable, invariable, unalterable, unchangeable

Antonyms: alterable, changeable, elastic, flexible, mutable, variable

Related Words: changeless, constant, determinate, established, set, settled, stable, steadfast, steady, unaltered, unchanging, unvarying; immovable, unmovable

Near Antonyms: adaptable, adjustable; fickle, fluctuating, inconstant, uncertain, unsettled, unstable, varying; plastic, pliable, pliant, supple, willowy

see all synonyms and antonyms

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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>.