v. t. To make froward, perverse, or ungovernable. [ Obs. ] Sir E. Sandys. [ 1913 Webster ]

a. [ Fro + -ward. See Fro, and cf. Fromward. ] Not willing to yield or comply with what is required or is reasonable; perverse; disobedient; peevish; as, a froward child. [ 1913 Webster ]

A froward man soweth strife. Prov. xvi. 28. [ 1913 Webster ]

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. [ 1913 Webster ]