Meaning
REFRACT'ORY, a. [L. refractarius, from refragor, to resist; re and fragor, from frango.]
1. Sullen or perverse in opposition or disobedience; obstinate in non-compliance; as a refractory child; a refractory servant.
Raging appetites that are most disobedient and refractory.
2. Unmanageable; obstinately unyielding; as a refractory beast.
3. Applied to metals, difficult of fusion; not easily yielding to the force of heat.
REFRACT'ORY, n.
1. A person obstinate in opposition or disobedience.
2. Obstinate opposition. [Not used.]
