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

If the digital camera dealt an early blow to photo studios by offering a cheaper, more convenient alternative to film, the smartphone’s flexibility supplanted the studio’s rigidity almost entirely. —Erin Sagen, The Atlantic, 2 Dec. 2024

His rigidity and bravado would be destructive to the agriculture, construction, and industrial sectors which rely on hard-working, productive immigrants. —Chloe Berger, Fortune, 27 Nov. 2024

By contrast, other manufacturers have tended to build their features as discrete parts, which can lead to rigidity. —Aarian Marshall, WIRED, 25 Nov. 2024

Our testers loved its rigidity and stability, which are improved by the Pro’s added carbon fiber. —Emily Pennington, Outside Online, 22 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1624, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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