brassbound
Reinforced with metal
Brassbound originally described something reinforced or ornamented with brass fittings, like a brassbound trunk or chest.
The figurative sense dominates now: rigidly fixed, inflexible, or unyielding.
A brassbound rule permits no exceptions.
A brassbound conservative refuses to bend on any principle.
The word suggests something strengthened to the point of stubborn immovability.
Refusing to give way
- inflexibleUnable to bend
- unbendingRefusing to change position
- strictRigorous, without flexibility
- uncompromisingRefusing to yield ground
adamant · obstinate · stubborn · immovable · intransigent · hidebound · dogmatic · orthodox
unyielding
Refusing to give way
- inflexibleUnable to bend
- unbendingRefusing to change position
- strictRigorous, without flexibility
uncompromising · adamant · obstinate · stubborn · immovable · intransigent · hidebound · dogmatic · orthodox · ironclad
sturdy
Solidly built, durable
heavy-duty · strengthened · fortified · bolstered · braced · hardened · tough · rugged · strapped · edged
sea chest
Maritime storage trunk
- portholeCircular vessel window
- compassDevice showing cardinal directions
- telescopeInstrument magnifying faraway objects
lantern · helm · deck · bulkhead · rigging · capstan · gunwale · marlinspike · forecastle · sextant