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recalcitrant

[ri-kal-si-truhnt] / rɪˈkæl sɪ trənt /


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

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Ms. Goldstein imagines a sweet spot that allows us to “objectively distinguish between better and worse ways to satisfy the longing to matter” while being “expansive enough to accommodate us in all our recalcitrant diversity.”

From The Wall Street Journal Jan. 9, 2026

“The fact that McDonnell and his staff are so recalcitrant — and are so reluctant — to do their jobs is shameful.”

From Los Angeles Times Oct. 9, 2025

Bessent's comments come after he called India a "bit recalcitrant" on trade negotiations in an interview with Fox Business on Tuesday.

From BBC Aug. 14, 2025

“The Justice Department covers the entire nation, and they have the resources to take on the most recalcitrant and stubborn state actors,” he explained.

From Slate Jul. 5, 2025

Any parent who has ever said to a recalcitrant child, “Okay, I’m going to count to ten and this time I’m really going to punish you,” knows the difference between deterrent and empty threat.

From "Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything" by Steven D. Levitt




Vocabulary lists containing recalcitrant


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