unbending

[ uhn-ben-ding ]

adjective

1. not bending or curving; inflexible; rigid.
2. refusing to yield or compromise; resolute.
3. austere or formal; aloof.

unbending

/ ʌnˈbɛndɪŋ /

adjective

1. rigid or inflexible
2. characterized by sternness or severity

   an unbending rule

Derived Forms

• unˈbendingly, adverb
• unˈbendingness, noun

Other Words From

• un·bending·ly adverb
• un·bending·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of unbending¹

First recorded in 1545–55; un- ¹ + bend ¹( def ) + -ing ²( def )

Example Sentences

An ironic observer with an unbending will, he prefers the quiet freedom of his own thoughts to the aggressive clamor of those around him who mistakenly believe they can control how he thinks.

From Los Angeles Times

It reminded him that pure, unbending clarity of purpose existed, just not in himself.

From Los Angeles Times

But the most credible thing to do was ignored by the majority: follow the “textualist” philosophy these justices claim as their unbending guide.

From Salon

“I changed some things. But I was unbending on the bar, especially since it was in the renderings, and they had shown it on social media.”

From Los Angeles Times

Though she loves to present like any other, round-the-way gal: at 62, she remains remarkably regal — unyielding and unbending as one of the last striking figures of a pale Fox football team these days.

From Los Angeles Times