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

In the case of the Vanquish, that starts with a chassis that is a stunning 75 percent stiffer in lateral rigidity at the front axle, when compared to the DBS. —Dan Carney, Popular Science, 7 Nov. 2024

Fractional leaders can help address the pain points of traditional models, like the high costs of full-time executives or the rigidity of consulting arrangements. —Tomoko Yokoi, Forbes, 23 Oct. 2024

For me, the personal challenge was trying to find some kind of movement in [his character's] rigidity. —Tommy McArdle, Peoplemag, 9 Sep. 2024

Certainty involves a certain rigidity or adherence to a point of view. —Laurel Donnellan, Forbes, 31 Oct. 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