recalcitrant Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. adjective satellite stubbornly resistant to authority or control
    refractory; fractious.
    • a fractious animal that would not submit to the harness
    • a refractory child
  2. adjective satellite marked by stubborn resistance to authority
    • the University suspended the most recalcitrant demonstrators

WordNet

Re*cal"ci*trant adjective
Etymology
L. recalcitrans, p. pr. of recalcitrare to kick back; pref. re- re- + calcitrare to kick, fr. calx heel. Cf. Inculcate.
Definitions
  1. Kicking back; recalcitrating; hence, showing repugnance or opposition; refractory.

Webster 1913