flinty

[ flin-tee ]

adjective

, flint·i·er, flint·i·est.

1. composed of, containing, or resembling flint, especially in hardness.
2. unyielding; unmerciful; obdurate:

   a flinty heart.

flinty

/ ˈflɪntɪ /

adjective

1. of, relating to, or resembling flint
2. hard or cruel; obdurate; unyielding

Derived Forms

• ˈflintily, adverb
• ˈflintiness, noun

Other Words From

• flinti·ly adverb
• flinti·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of flinty¹

First recorded in 1530–40; flint + -y ¹

Example Sentences

Peake’s staid and knowing portrayal stands in contrast and complement to that of Petticrew, whose resolute manner vacillates between a flinty swagger and true anguish.

From Salon

Still, she was able to relate to Marian, the quiet yet flinty younger sister who looks up to the fiery Dolours.

From Los Angeles Times

And when I suggested that my flinty grandmother had probably insisted my mother give the child up, he said no.

From Salon

The flinty Lee remains stoic, speaking through her work, drowning her emotions in booze and pills.

From Los Angeles Times

Banks, on the other hand, brings a flinty mean streak to the striving Hope.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• steely
• stony