Definition of adamantnext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word adamant different from other adjectives like it?

The words inflexible and obdurate are common synonyms of adamant. While all three words mean "unwilling to alter a predetermined course or purpose," adamant implies utter immovability in the face of all temptation or entreaty.

adamant that the work should continue

When is it sensible to use inflexible instead of adamant?

The words inflexible and adamant can be used in similar contexts, but inflexible implies rigid adherence or even slavish conformity to principle.

inflexible in their demands

When could obdurate be used to replace adamant?

The words obdurate and adamant are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, obdurate stresses hardness of heart and insensitivity to appeals for mercy or the influence of divine grace.

obdurate in his refusal to grant clemency

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of adamant The president has been adamant about refusing to sign a deal that would allow Iran to keep its enriched uranium or continue developing nuclear weapons—a point Iran has refused to back down from in the past. Zachary Folk, Forbes.com, 23 May 2026 Seth was always adamant these aren’t player rankings, but dividing them up into tiers is kind of ranking these guys. Zach Harper, New York Times, 21 May 2026 Massie had held firm -- adamant that his constituents would pull through for him. Hannah Demissie, ABC News, 19 May 2026 But Ryan is adamant that radio helps people connect to each other more than streaming services ever could. Amelia Santaniello, CBS News, 18 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for adamant
Recent Examples of Synonyms for adamant
Adjective
  • Grab a melamine sponge and get rid of stubborn bathtub stains in a jiffy.
    Melissa Locker, Southern Living, 1 June 2026
  • If the Avs remain stubborn and play a style that suits their stars in the regular season, MacKinnon might win another title, but will be at the end of his career with another team.
    Troy Renck, Denver Post, 1 June 2026
Adjective
  • The throughline of his life is his on-again, off-again friendship with, but also his steadfast love for a neighbor girl of the upper class, who challenges him repeatedly to become his better self.
    The Know, Denver Post, 31 May 2026
  • Despite their steadfast opposition to the change, most in the college hockey world are resigning themselves to likely new reality.
    Jess Myers, Twin Cities, 29 May 2026
Adjective
  • Cuban leaders are believed to rely on hardened facilities, underground bunkers, tunnels, decoys, secure compounds and frequent movement.
    Antonio María Delgado, Miami Herald, 28 May 2026
  • That means hardened infrastructure, redundant logistics, jointly developed air and missile defenses, more resilient energy systems, and upgrades to pipelines, ports, rail, and trade routes.
    Daniel Benaim, Time, 18 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Adamant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/adamant. Accessed 8 Jun. 2026.

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