First Known Use: 15th century
Dictionary
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
1
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>
2
a : inflexibly set in opinion b : strictly observed <adheres to a rigid schedule>
3
: firmly inflexible rather than lax or indulgent <a rigid disciplinarian>
4
: precise and accurate in procedure <rigid control of the manufacturing process>
5
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
Related to RIGID
- Synonyms
- brassbound, cast-iron, exacting, hard-line, inflexible, rigorous, strict, stringent, uncompromising
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
Rhymes with RIGID
RIGIDNESS Defined for Kids
rigid
adjective rig·id \ˈri-jəd\
Definition of RIGID for Kids
1
: not flexible : stiff <rigid plastic>
Medical Dictionary
rigid
adjective rig·id \ˈrij-əd\
Medical Definition of RIGID
: deficient in or devoid of flexibility : characterized by stiffness <rigid muscles>
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