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adj

inflexible

ihn-FLEHK-suhbl

Inflexible (adj) means Unable to bend or be physically altered in shape. Example: “The old metal rod was rusted stiff and inflexible.”

adj
1
Unable to bend or be physically altered in shape.
"The old metal rod was rusted stiff and inflexible."
2
Unwilling to change one's opinions, plans, or ways of doing things.
"Her manager was famously inflexible about working hours."
"The rules seemed inflexible, with no exceptions allowed for anyone."

How to use inflexible

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishRigid — either physically stiff or stubbornly unwilling to change.

Common pairings
inflexible rules inflexible attitude remain inflexible

Word forms

more inflexible comparative, most inflexible superlative

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The old metal rod was rusted stiff and _____.

Etymology

From Latin inflexibilis, from in- ("not") plus flexibilis ("flexible").

Origin: Latin

unflexible

Antonyms

Related words

Rhymes for inflexible

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Frequently asked questions

What does “inflexible” mean?

The word “inflexible” means unable to bend or be physically altered in shape. In plain terms, rigid — either physically stiff or stubbornly unwilling to change.

How do you pronounce “inflexible”?

“Inflexible” is pronounced ihn-FLEHK-suhbl (/ɪnˈflɛksəbl̩/ in IPA).

How do you use “inflexible” in a sentence?

Here is “inflexible” used in a sentence: “The old metal rod was rusted stiff and inflexible.”

What is another word for “inflexible”?

Words with a similar meaning to “inflexible” include unflexible.

What is the opposite of “inflexible”?

The opposite of “inflexible” — its antonyms — is flexible.

What part of speech is “inflexible”?

“Inflexible” is an adjective.

Where does the word “inflexible” come from?

The word “inflexible” comes from Latin. From Latin inflexibilis, from in- ("not") plus flexibilis ("flexible").

How many meanings does “inflexible” have?

“Inflexible” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: unable to bend or be physically altered in shape.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial