Dictionary

A modern dictionary of Catholic terms, both common and obscure. Find accurate definitions of words and phrases.

Or browse the dictionary by selecting a letter!
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

OBSTINACY

Unreasonable stubbornness in persisting in one's own opinion and mode of action, tenaciously insistent upon doing one's own way. It often shuts the mind to known truth and creates contempt by militating against divine authority. by closing the heart to promptings of grace and possible repentance, it may lead to grievous malice and flagrant error. (Etym. Latin obstinatus, from ob-, against + stare, to stand: obstinare, to set one's mind firmly on.)

All items in this dictionary are from Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.

Click here to advertise on CatholicCulture.org