Unwilling to go, or only running back; obstinate in refusing to move forward; stubborn; as a restif steed. It seems originally to have been used of horses that would not be driven forward. It is sometimes written restive. All who before him did ascend the throne, labor’d to draw three restive nations on.

Unyielding; as restif stubbornness.

Being at rest, or less in action.

A stubborn horse.