rigidity

noun

ri·​gid·​i·​ty rə-ˈji-də-tē 

plural rigidities

1

: the quality or state of being rigid

2

: one that is rigid (as in form or conduct)

Synonyms

• exactingness
• hardness
• harshness
• inflexibility
• rigidness
• rigor
• rigorousness
• severity
• sternness
• strictness
• stringency

Examples of rigidity in a Sentence

sometimes the rigidity of the headmaster's discipline was deemed excessive by even much of the faculty

Recent Examples on the Web

The subframes themselves are actually based on the Series III E-Type generation due to their improved rigidity and durability. —Peter Nelson, Forbes.com, 12 June 2025

Her life read a bit like a cautionary tale against the rigidities of radicalism. —Hazlitt, 11 June 2025

Still, Payton and general manager George Paton drafted him seeing a playmaker in space, with upside concealed within the rigidity of the Knights’ offense. —Luca Evans, Denver Post, 2 June 2025

These organizations can surface insights faster, adapt more smoothly and avoid the rigidity that often leads to systemic stagnation. —Rob Robinson, Forbes.com, 23 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1624, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for rigidity

• acidity
• aridity
• avidity
• cupidity
• fluidity
• humidity
• liquidity
• lucidity
• morbidity
• placidity
• rancidity
• rapidity

Medical Definition

rigidity

noun

ri·​gid·​i·​ty rə-ˈjid-ət-ē 

plural rigidities

: the quality or state of being rigid: as

a

: abnormal stiffness of muscle

muscle rigidity symptomatic of Parkinson's disease

—Diane Gershon

b

: emotional inflexibility and resistance to change