testarudo
“testarudo” means “stubborn” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
stubborn
Also: headstrong, obstinate
📝 In Action
Mi abuelo es un hombre muy testarudo.
A2My grandfather is a very stubborn man.
No seas testarudo y acepta mi ayuda.
B1Don't be stubborn and accept my help.
Fue tan testaruda que no quiso leer las instrucciones.
B2She was so headstrong that she didn't want to read the instructions.
stubborn person
Also: hardhead
📝 In Action
Ese testarudo no quiere escuchar razones.
B1That stubborn guy doesn't want to listen to reason.
Es una testaruda, siempre quiere tener la razón.
B1She is a stubborn one; she always wants to be right.
¡No hables con él, es un testarudo!
A2Don't talk to him, he's a hardhead!
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "testarudo" in Spanish:
hardhead→headstrong→obstinate→stubborn→stubborn person→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: testarudo
Question 1 of 3
How would you describe a female friend who refuses to change her mind?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'testa', which originally meant an earthen pot or shell, and later came to mean 'skull' or 'head'. It suggests someone who only relies on their own head/skull and ignores others.
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'testarudo' an insult?
It's not a swear word, but it is generally negative. It's like calling someone 'pig-headed' or 'stubborn' in English.
What is the difference between 'testarudo' and 'terco'?
They are almost identical. 'Terco' is slightly more informal and common in some parts of Latin America, while 'testarudo' is recognized everywhere.
Can I use it for objects?
Usually, no. It is almost exclusively used for people or animals (like mules) that show a strong will.