adj
refractory
Refractory (adj) means Stubborn and difficult to control, refusing to do what is wanted.
adj
1
Stubborn and difficult to control, refusing to do what is wanted.
2
Able to withstand very high temperatures without being damaged.
"There are also over 1,200 pallet brick wagons used for the conveyance of refractory bricks."
— , Developments in Freight Transport (1959)
3
(medicine) Not responding well to treatment.
"Many of the vague and refractory cases of neck and shoulder pain and of migraine may be due to cervical disc disease."
— Albert Fields, Neck and Shoulder Pain (1949)
4
Unable to react or respond to a stimulus.
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Etymology
Comes from Latin refractārius ("obstinate"), from refrāctus, the past participle of refringere ("to break up"). It was originally spelled refractary, refractarie, but was later reanalysed to match other adjectives ending in -ory.
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for refractory
See all rhymes for refractory →Frequently asked questions
What is the meaning of refractory?
"refractory" (adj) means stubborn and difficult to control, refusing to do what is wanted.
What is another word for refractory?
Other words for "refractory" include stubborn, fractious, recalcitrant.
What is the opposite of refractory?
Opposites of "refractory" include amenable, obedient, tractable, manageable, docile, combustible.
What are the different meanings of refractory?
"refractory" has 3 main meanings: 1. Stubborn and difficult to control, refusing to do what is wanted; 2. Able to withstand very high temperatures without being damaged; 3. (medicine) Not responding well to treatment.
