1. stubbornly refusing to obey authority or follow rules; difficult to manage or control

Examples

• The recalcitrant student refused to follow the dress code despite repeated warnings.
• After hours of negotiation, the recalcitrant union finally agreed to the terms.
• The recalcitrant horse would not cross the bridge no matter how much the rider coaxed.
• Parents struggled with their recalcitrant teenager who ignored curfew rules.
• The recalcitrant witness refused to testify in court.
• Despite multiple attempts at repair, the recalcitrant machine continued to malfunction.