rigid

adjective rig·id \ˈri-jəd\

: not able to be bent easily

: not easily changed

: not willing to change opinions or behavior

Full Definition of RIGID

a : deficient in or devoid of flexibility <rigid price controls> <a rigid bar of metal>

b : appearing stiff and unyielding <his face rigid with pain>

a : inflexibly set in opinion

b : strictly observed <adheres to a rigid schedule>

: firmly inflexible rather than lax or indulgent <a rigid disciplinarian>

: precise and accurate in procedure <rigid control of the manufacturing process>

of an airship : having the outer shape maintained by a fixed framework

— rig·id·ly adverb

— rig·id·ness noun

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Origin of RIGID

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

First Known Use: 15th century

Related to RIGID

Synonyms: brassbound, cast-iron, exacting, hard-line, inflexible, rigorous, strict, stringent, uncompromising

Antonyms: flexible, lax, loose, relaxed, slack

Synonym Discussion of 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