Headstrong
HED-strong
/ˈhedstrɒŋ/
Self-willed and obstinate; determined to have one's own way without listening to warnings.
Focuses on energetic, impulsive determination to plunge forward regardless of advice.
The story behind the word. Originating in the 14th century, the phrase described a horse whose head was so strong that the rider could not pull the reins to steer or stop it. The horse literally went wherever its head pointed.
Word relationships
- willful: 'Willful' focuses on intention and disregard for consequences; 'headstrong' highlights impetuous, rash action.
- impetuous: 'Impetuous' emphasizes speed and lack of thought, while 'headstrong' combines impetuousness with stubborn self-will.
- cautious: Cautious implies careful consideration before acting.
- obedient: Obedient describes willingness to follow guidance and authority.
Commonly confused with
- Obstinate: Obstinate is holding a position firmly; headstrong is charging forward rashly.
Word family
- headstrongness (noun): the state or quality of being headstrong
Collocations
- headstrong child
- headstrong passion
- headstrong nature
- headstrong leader
Idioms & expressions
- take the bit in one's teeth
- rush in where angels fear to tread
Example sentences
- "The headstrong youth ignored his father's counsel and invested all his savings into a risky enterprise." Parenting and youth
- "Elizabeth Bennet is portrayed as a headstrong young woman who refuses to marry merely for financial security." Literary character profile
Memory hook
HEAD-STRONG: Your HEAD is so STRONG that nobody can turn it in a different direction. Charging ahead without turning your head.
When not to use
Do not use to describe passive refusal or quiet resistance; headstrong implies active, rash motion.
Fun facts
- Shakespeare used 'headstrong' in several plays, including 'Romeo and Juliet', to describe impetuous young lovers.
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