stone-hard
Solid as granite
Stone-hard describes something extremely hard or unyielding, with the rigidity of rock.
The compound works literally for physical hardness—stone-hard bread, stone-hard ground—and figuratively for emotional inflexibility: a stone-hard expression, stone-hard resolve.
The word emphasizes complete absence of softness or give.
Utterly firm and reliable
- petrifiedSolidified or fear-paralyzed
- calcifiedHardened by calcium deposits
- fossilizedMineralized organic remains
- concreteSolid building mixture
adamantine · marble · flint · unyielding · impenetrable · dense · compact · indurated
Steady and unchanging
- resoluteFixed in purpose
- steadfastFirmly loyal, unshakeable
- unyieldingRefusing to give way
- immovableIncapable of being shifted
firm · unshakeable · iron-willed · tenacious · dogged · stubborn · relentless · persistent
rock-solid
Utterly firm and reliable
- petrifiedSolidified or fear-paralyzed
- calcifiedHardened by calcium deposits
- fossilizedMineralized organic remains
concrete · adamantine · marble · flint · unyielding · impenetrable · dense · compact · indurated · lithified
unwavering
Steady and unchanging
- resoluteFixed in purpose
- steadfastFirmly loyal, unshakeable
- unyieldingRefusing to give way
immovable · firm · unshakeable · iron-willed · tenacious · dogged · stubborn · relentless · persistent · adamant
cold-hearted
Devoid of empathy
- unfeelingWithout compassion or emotion
- unmovedNot stirred physically/emotionally
- pitilessLacking any compassion
merciless · ruthless · callous · hardened · steely-eyed · impassive · unsympathetic · harsh · severe · stern
crusty
Hard-shelled, literally or figuratively
biscotti · jerky · parmesan · crouton · baguette · crust · desiccated · leathery · tough · chewy
stone-hardsoft-hearted
Readily feeling sympathy
tender-hearted · compassionate · gentle · warm · yielding