mindmap root((倔强)) contrary implies a temperamental unwillingness to accept orders or advice: the most ~ child in my class. perverse may imply wrong-headed, determined, unwholesome, or cranky opposition to what is reasonable or generally accepted: offered the most ~ argument for declaring war. restive suggests unwillingness or obstinate refusal to submit to discipline or follow orders and often suggests restlessness or impatience with control: a ~ horse who refused to stand still. balky suggests a refusal to proceed or acquiesce in a desired direction or course of action: workers became ~ when asked to accept pay cuts. wayward suggests strong-willed capriciousness and irregularity in behavior: ~ inmates isolated from the others.