ISEE/SSAT Vocabulary BuilderWordsRrefractory
ISEE/SSAThard
refractory
Meaning: stubbornly resistant to control, authority, or treatment
refractory in a sentence
How refractory is used in real sentences:
The refractory stallion resisted every effort to guide it into the stable.
The teacher sought new methods for reaching a refractory student who defied every instruction.
“Next, the team simulated a virus that remained refractory to control: masks reduced transmission less than expected, and infected people stayed contagious longer.”
— from the passage When the Curve Breaks
“The next version passed the Commons, but the Lords remained refractory, accepting discussion while resisting provisions that transferred seats from tiny boroughs.”
— from the passage The Reform Standoff
“A few refractory members resisted every amendment, even after a trial hearing ended earlier and included more speakers than comparable meetings had.”
— from the passage The Bellwether Revision
Synonyms for refractory
Other words for refractory — obstinate, recalcitrant and unmanageable — carry the same meaning.
- obstinate
- recalcitrant
- unmanageable
Antonyms of refractory
Words that mean the opposite of refractory:
- obedient
- compliant
- tractable
Where it comes from
From Latin refractarius, meaning 'stubborn or resistant.'
Word parts
- fract/frag — break
refractory: re- (back) + fract (break) + -ory (relating to)
Memory hook
REFRACTORY sounds like 'refuse the factory rules': stubbornly resisting control.
Practice refractory in the app