1 C1 idiomatic informal
To become noticeably more stubborn or unyielding, especially under pressure.
"Every time we tried to negotiate, he just stubborned up and refused to listen."
stubborn up
C1 informal intransitive
To become more stubborn or resistant, especially in the face of pressure to change one's position.
In plain English
Decide to be really stubborn and refuse to move or change your mind.
What does "stubborn up" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Usage tip
A rare, chiefly American informal expression. Not widely documented; may be encountered in regional speech or informal writing. Most speakers would prefer 'dig in', 'dig their heels in', or 'stand their ground'.
Words that pair with "stubborn up"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
suddenly refuse negotiations position
How to conjugate "stubborn up"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
stubborn up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
stubborns up
he/she/it
Past simple
stubborned up
yesterday
Past participle
stubborned up
have + pp
-ing form
stubborning up
continuous
Hear "stubborn up" in the wild
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