refractory

Meanings

• adjective

  Resistant to influence or change, especially when this is unwelcome.

  - "The soil was refractory, refusing to absorb water."
  - "Despite repeated attempts, the student remained refractory to learning."

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Pronunciation

1. 
   
   
   
   Source: "https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=75857756"
2. /ɹɪˈfɹæk.təɹ.i/
   
   
   
   Source: "https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=4794796"

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Synonyms

contrary , fractious , fireproof , heat-resistant

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Rhymes

Words rhyming with refractory
reclusive , recusive , reflective , defensive

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Variants

List of all variants of refractory that leads to same result
refractorily , refractoriness , refractorinesses , refractory , refractories , refractory period , refractory periods , refractory phase

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Forms

Different forms of the word (e.g., verb conjugations, plural forms, comparative/superlative forms for adjectives).

refractoryness, refractories

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Etymology

origin and the way in which meanings have changed throughout history.

From the Latin 'refractus', meaning 'broken back' or 'bent back', due to the refractory material's resistance to being shaped or bent.

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Trivia

Any details, considerations, events or pieces of information regarding the word

1. The term 'refractory' was first used in the context of electrical engineering to describe materials that did not conduct electricity easily.

2. Refractory ceramics are used in high-temperature applications, such as in the production of glass and steel.

3. Refractory patients in medicine may be treated with alternative therapies, such as experimental drugs or surgery.

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Related Concepts

informations on related concepts or terms closely associated with the word. Discuss semantic fields or domains that the word belongs to

1. resistance: Refractory materials exhibit high resistance to electrical current, making them useful in certain applications.

2. non-compliance: Refractory patients often exhibit non-compliance with standard treatment regimens.

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Culture

Any cultural, historical, or symbolic significance of the word. Explore how the word has been used in literature, art, music, or other forms of expression.

In medicine, a refractory patient is one who does not respond to standard treatments and requires alternative therapies. In electronics, a refractory period refers to a brief time after a nerve impulse during which the nerve cannot generate another impulse.

How to Memorize "refractory"

1. visualize
   

   - Visualize a material that refuses to bend or change shape, like a stubborn piece of metal or clay.

2. associate
   

   - Associate the word 'refractory' with the idea of resistance or unwillingness to change.

3. mnemonics
   

   - Create a mnemonic by remembering the phrase 'Refuses Firmly Against Change' to help remember the definition of refractory.

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