strict

adjective \ˈstrikt\

—used to describe a command, rule, etc., that must be obeyed

: demanding that people obey rules or behave in a certain way

: carefully obeying the rules or principles of a religion or a particular way of life

Full Definition of STRICT

archaic

a : tight, close; also : intimate

b : narrow

a : stringent in requirement or control <under strict orders>

b : severe in discipline <a strict teacher>

a : inflexibly maintained or adhered to <strict secrecy>

b : rigorously conforming to principle or a norm or condition

: exact, precise <in the strict sense of the word>

: of narrow erect habit of growth <a strict inflorescence>

— strict·ly \ˈstrik(t)-lē\ adverb

— strict·ness \-nəs\ noun

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Origin of STRICT

Middle English stricte, from Latin strictus, from past participle of stringere to bind tight — more at strain

First Known Use: 15th century

Related to STRICT

Synonyms: accurate, authentic, exact, precise, right, faithful, true, veracious

Antonyms: corrupt, corrupted, false, imprecise, inaccurate, inauthentic, inexact, loose, unfaithful

Synonym Discussion of STRICT

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>.