rigid

adjective
rig·​id | \ ˈri-jəd How to pronounce rigid (audio) \

Definition of rigid

1a : deficient in or devoid of flexibility rigid price controls a rigid bar of metal
b : appearing stiff and unyielding his face rigid with pain
2a : inflexibly set in opinion
b : strictly observed adheres to a rigid schedule
3 : firmly inflexible rather than lax or indulgent a rigid disciplinarian
4 : precise and accurate in procedure rigid control of the manufacturing process
5 of an airship : having the outer shape maintained by a fixed framework

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Other Words from rigid

rigidly adverb
rigidness noun

Choose the Right Synonym for rigid

rigid, rigorous, strict, stringent mean extremely severe or stern. rigid implies uncompromising inflexibility. rigid rules of conduct rigorous implies the imposition of hardship and difficulty. the rigorous training of recruits strict emphasizes undeviating conformity to rules, standards, or requirements. strict enforcement of the law stringent suggests severe, tight restriction or limitation. stringent standards of admission

synonyms see in addition stiff

Examples of rigid in a Sentence

The patient's legs were rigid. He is a rigid disciplinarian.

Recent Examples on the Web

And despite Virgo’s reputedly rigid nature, de Castellane encourages a looser approach to picking an occasion to enjoy her designs. Vanessa Lawrence, ELLE Decor, "Dior‘s New Tabletop Collection Is Fit for a Virgo," 9 Aug. 2019 Gone are the days of staid rows of rigid, single desks. Arika Herron, Indianapolis Star, "A slide, solar panels and tons of natural light: Peek inside the coolest new elementary school," 6 Aug. 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'rigid.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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First Known Use of rigid

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

History and Etymology for rigid

Middle English rigide, from Latin rigidus, from rigēre to be stiff

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More Definitions for rigid

rigid

adjective

English Language Learners Definition of rigid

: not able to be bent easily
: not easily changed
: not willing to change opinions or behavior

rigid

adjective
rig·​id | \ ˈri-jəd How to pronounce rigid (audio) \

Kids Definition of rigid

1 : not flexible : stiff rigid plastic
2 : strict sense 2, severe rigid discipline

Other Words from rigid

rigidly adverb

rigid

adjective
rig·​id | \ ˈrij-əd How to pronounce rigid (audio) \

Medical Definition of rigid