bullheaded

Bullheaded is an adjective describing a person who is unreasonably stubborn or obstinately persistent, especially in defending a belief or course of action despite evidence or persuasive arguments. The term evokes the image of a bull’s stubbornness and implies a stubborn, inflexible mindset rather than a simply strong will.

Origin traces to the bull, symbolizing obstinacy, combined with headed (as in “head” meaning disposition). It appears in English in early modern usage, with bullheadedness forming a common noun.

Usage and connotation: Bullheaded is informal and often mildly pejorative. It characterizes individuals who refuse to consider alternatives, even when presented with data or reasoning. It can describe both daily behavior and decision-making processes. It is similar to headstrong, though bullheaded emphasizes stubborn refusal more than proactive decisiveness.

Synonyms include obstinate, mulish, stubborn; antonyms include flexible, pliant, amenable.

Examples: Despite the committee’s concerns, he remained bullheaded and stuck to his plan. Her bullheaded refusal to admit a mistake frustrated her colleagues.

See also: obstinacy, stubbornness, tenacity (positive sense), obstinate.