recalcitrant

/rɪˈkælsɪtrənt/

If someone is so pig-headed that he won't budge on an issue, call him recalcitrant. Not that it will make a difference...

Recalcitrant is from Latin calcitrare, meaning "to kick," so someone who is recalcitrant is kicking back against what's wanted of them. Synonyms are unruly, intractable, and refractory, all referring to what is difficult to manage or control. Writers are frequently referring to recalcitrant Democrats and Republicans, since many people are stubbornly loyal to their political parties and unwilling to change.

Definitions of recalcitrant

1. adjective

   stubbornly resistant to authority or control
   synonyms: fractious, refractory

   disobedient

   not obeying or complying with commands of those in authority
2. adjective

   marked by stubborn resistance to authority
   “the University suspended the most recalcitrant demonstrators”

   synonyms:

   defiant, noncompliant

   boldly resisting authority or an opposing force