Pronunciation: [ˈɒbstɪnˌe͡ɪt] (IPA) 
The word "obstinate" is spelled with a silent "e" at the end, which changes the vowel sound in the previous syllable. The IPA phonetic transcription for "obstinate" is /ˈɑbstənət/. The first syllable is pronounced as "ahb" (ab) with a short "a" sound, followed by a consonant cluster of "st" and an "i" pronounced as "ih" (ɪ). The second syllable is "nuh" (nə) with a short "u" sound, and the final syllable is a silent "e."
Obstinate is an adjective that describes a person's strong, stubborn, and determined attitude towards their opinions, beliefs, or actions, often disregarding the influence of others or reasoning. It implies a refusal to change one's mind or to yield in the face of criticism or opposition. This term can also be used to describe a particular behavior, situation, or quality that is difficult to change or control.
When referring to a person, obstinate often implies a lack of flexibility or willingness to compromise, as well as a persistent adherence to one's own beliefs or desires even when others may provide strong arguments against them. This can often result in a person being perceived as difficult, unyielding, or uncooperative.
In the context of situations or objects, obstinate suggests a resistance to change, adaptability, or correction. This may refer to circumstances that are not easily modified or improved due to their inherent nature, such as an obstinate illness that does not respond well to treatment. Similarly, an obstinate problem may refer to a persistent issue that is challenging to resolve or overcome.
Overall, obstinate portrays a strong determination or persistence in one's thoughts, actions, or situations, regardless of external influences, and can often be associated with a stubborn or unyielding attitude.
Firmly adhering to an opinion or purpose, in an ill sense; inflexible; unyielding; stubborn.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "obstinate" has its origins in Latin. It comes from the Latin word "obstinatus", which is the past participle of the verb "obstinare", meaning "to persist" or "to stand firm". The Latin root "ob-" means "against" or "in front of", and "stinare" comes from the noun "sto", meaning "to stand". When combined, these elements create the concept of "standing firm" or "being inflexible". Over time, the word "obstinate" has developed in English to refer to someone who is stubborn, unyielding, or resistant to change.
