Stability & Resistance Vocabulary

unchanging over time; unable to be changed

“Some philosophers argue that mathematical truths are immutable.”

Origin: Latin: im- (not) + mutabilis (changeable)

liable to change; inconstant

“Human nature is mutable, shaped by circumstance.”

Origin: Latin: mutabilis (changeable), from mutare (to change)

tending to change frequently or easily; versatile

“His protean talents allowed him to excel in many fields.”

Origin: Greek: Proteus (shape-shifting sea god in mythology)

to turn into bone; to cease developing

“Without new ideas, institutions ossify and become irrelevant.”

Origin: Latin: os (bone) + facere (to make)

to harden; to become rigid

“His opinions had calcified into unchangeable prejudices.”

Origin: Latin: calx (lime, limestone) + facere (to make)

to cease to flow or move; become inactive

“Without challenges, careers stagnate.”

Origin: Latin: stagnare (to form a pool), from stagnum (pool, swamp)

lacking in movement, action, or change

“The economy remained static despite government intervention.”

Origin: Greek: statikos (causing to stand), from statos (standing)

lacking the ability to move or act

“The organization had become inert, resistant to all innovation.”

Origin: Latin: iners (unskilled, idle), in- (not) + ars (art, skill)

resolutely firm and unwavering

“She remained steadfast in her convictions despite pressure.”

Origin: Old English: stedefæst, stede (place) + fæst (firmly fixed)

firmly established and difficult to change

“Entrenched interests blocked every reform attempt.”

Origin: French: en- (in) + tranche (slice, trench)