# adamant

/ˈædəmənt/ (US) · /ˈædəmənt/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/adamant
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 2. an unbreakable substance

noun · CEFR C2 · Literary · Archaic

a legendary stone or mineral that is impossible to break or cut.

For teachers: a legendary mineral or stone of impenetrable hardness; often used metaphorically to describe emotional coldness or physical strength.

- The ancient myths described a gate made of adamant that no sword could break.
- The poet compared the king's heart to adamant, suggesting he was entirely unmoved by the suffering of his subjects.

Usage: Often appears in the phrase 'of adamant' to describe a person's character or a physical barrier.

## Examples

- She was adamant that she would not attend the meeting.
- Despite several lucrative offers from competitors, the founder remained adamant about keeping the company independent.
- The prime minister was adamant in his refusal to negotiate with the rebels, maintaining that any concession would undermine the rule of law.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.