doctrinaire
pronunciation
How to pronounce doctrinaire in British English:
UK [ˌdɒktrɪˈneə(r)]
How to pronounce doctrinaire in American English:
US [ˌdɑktrəˈner]
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- Noun:
- a stubborn person of arbitrary or arrogant opinions
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- Adjective:
- stubbornly insistent on theory without regard for practicality or suitability
Word Origin
- doctrinaire (n.)
- 1820, from French doctrinaire "impractical person," originally "adherent of doctrines" (14c.), from Latin doctrina (see doctrine). At first used in the context of French politics, contemptuously applied by rival factions to those who tried to reconcile liberty with royal authority after 1815. Hence, anyone who applies doctrine without making allowance for practical considerations (1831). As an adjective, from 1834.
Example
- 1. Mr mourdock , by contrast , is much more doctrinaire .
- 2. For doctrinaire types , who oppose all trade in ivory , the forthcoming sale is not just a challenge to endangered animals ; it could be a threat to the credibility of their best-loved arguments .
- 3. There are not enough votes on the religious right to secure the nomination , so the successful candidate will have to appeal to less doctrinaire voters too .
- 4. Doctrinaire democrats , for their part , complained that the president is too willing to cut social spending , and too reluctant to tax the rich to pay for them .
- 5. Mr santorum is likely to find his doctrinaire views on abortion , gay marriage and other social issues a handicap in these places .