adjective

inflexible

in-FLEK-suh-bul/ɪnˈfleksəbl/

Resistant to bending under pressure.

The inflexible metal rod stays straight when I push against it.

A rigid thick steel bar stays perfectly straight while two hands attempt to bend it, braced over a simple vise; no broken metal or motion implying bending.

Etymology

inLatinnot

+flexLatinto bend

+ibleLatincapable of being

The pieces express an inability to be bent. Physical rigidity also supplies the figurative image of someone who will not yield in attitude or purpose.

In context

National Academies - Earth and Life Studies295:25

if we put this in statute it's going to be inflexible it's going to be there for all time it's going to be really hard to change

DAY 1: Toward Sequencing and Mapping of RNA Modifications: A Workshop

More examples

An inflexible sole makes these shoes uncomfortable.
We replace the rubber hose with an inflexible pipe.
The plastic becomes inflexible in the cold.

Forms

inflexible

inflexibility noun — The quality of resisting physical bending.

Similar words

rigid: Emphasizes keeping a fixed shape rather than bending.
stiff: Usually allows some bending but requires noticeable force.