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

Still, many–not all–employers are backtracking on their flexible work environments and returning to pre-pandemic rigidity. —Mind Share Partners, Forbes, 19 Mar. 2025

There are racist overtones to its actions, as well as a commitment to class rigidity and constraining the prospects of mobility. —David Faris, Newsweek, 17 Mar. 2025

This destabilizes your body by creating rigidity and tension rather than strength. —Dana Solomon, Outside Online, 16 Mar. 2025

In practice, Ryan says, parents can implement it by simply approaching the challenging moments with their kid from a place of curiosity rather than anger, rigidity or frustration. —Miranda Rake, Parents, 14 Mar. 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