froward

Froward, a.

Etymology: [Fro + -ward. See Fro, and cf. Fromward.]

Not willing to yield or compIy with what is required or is reasonable; perverse; disobedient; peevish; as, a froward child. A froward man soweth strife. Prov. xvi. 28. A froward retention of custom is as turbulent a thing as innovation. Bacon.

Syn. -- Untoward; wayward; unyielding; ungovernable: refractory; obstinate; petulant; cross; peevish. See Perverse. -- Fro"ward*ly, adv. -- Fro"ward*ness, n.

Shades of meaning

Fernald has no entry of its own for froward; he lists it under perverse.

Where he writes about it:

Wayward refers to a perverse disregard of morality and duty; froward is practically obsolete; untoward is rarely heard except in certain phrases; as, untoward circumstances. — from perverse

Synonyms

perverse contrary factious fractious intractable obstinate petulant stubborn ungovernable untoward wayward wilful

Antonyms

accommodating amenable complaisant compliant genial governable kind obliging

etymology Webster’s online