Definition of rigidnext
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Synonym Chooser

How is the word rigid distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of rigid are rigorous, strict, and stringent. While all these words mean "extremely severe or stern," rigid implies uncompromising inflexibility.

rigid rules of conduct

When would rigorous be a good substitute for rigid?

The synonyms rigorous and rigid are sometimes interchangeable, but rigorous implies the imposition of hardship and difficulty.

the rigorous training of recruits

When might strict be a better fit than rigid?

The words strict and rigid can be used in similar contexts, but strict emphasizes undeviating conformity to rules, standards, or requirements.

strict enforcement of the law

When could stringent be used to replace rigid?

Although the words stringent and rigid have much in common, stringent suggests severe, tight restriction or limitation.

stringent standards of admission

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of rigid Instead, she is forced to use a rigid, one-handed pushing motion from her chest just to get the ball to the rim. Jackson Thompson, FOXNews.com, 26 June 2026 The bio-andy was flung off its feet, the light armor turning rigid. Jeff Spry, Space.com, 26 June 2026 While a commune might evoke group meetings, rules, and chore charts, the mommune is far less rigid about who does and pays for what. Kayla Levy, Curbed, 25 June 2026 Many students come to class with different backgrounds, interests, and learning needs, and are greeted with a curriculum that can feel rigid, boring, and far removed from the world around them. Mike Goldstein, The Atlantic, 25 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for rigid
Recent Examples of Synonyms for rigid
Adjective
  • Without stricter coordination, brightness limits, debris controls, disposal rules, and international capacity planning, the next space race could damage the orbital lanes on which modern life now depends.
    Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 6 July 2026
  • Not a whole lot, admittedly, since there was reportedly a strict no-phone policy for guests (as well as event staff and security).
    Jon Blistein, Rolling Stone, 6 July 2026
Adjective
  • MacDonald agrees that some of Kiros' positions could put Democratic candidates in a tough spot.
    Shaun Boyd, CBS News, 2 July 2026
  • The 34 measures include cuts to income tax for low- and middle income families, an overhaul of the creaking pension system, tougher rules for employees' sick leave and a reduction of the country's stifling bureaucracy.
    ABC News, ABC News, 2 July 2026
Adjective
  • Not long afterward, he was elected president on a platform deeply hostile to the West and its liberal ideology, and especially to the United States — threatening a hard fight in the event of war.
    Xiaoqian Lin, CNN Money, 6 July 2026
  • That’s hard to imagine of a president who uses the office to promote and prosper from his own brand name.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 6 July 2026
Adjective
  • How to Restore Absorbency to Towels To restore absorbency to stiff towels, Sokolowski recommends performing a deep clean.
    Louise Parks, Martha Stewart, 30 June 2026
  • Vigorously whisk remaining 1 cup of cream with powdered sugar in a large bowl until medium-stiff peaks form, 2 to 3 minutes.
    Erin Merhar, Southern Living, 30 June 2026
Adjective
  • In a massive joint operation, US Central Command – with tight coordination from US Strategic Command, US Space Command, and the US Space Force – used electromagnetic warfare to blank out a massive area over Iran.
    David Szondy July 06, New Atlas, 7 July 2026
  • In major competitions since Euro 1984 (including the UEFA Nations League), the contests have been tight affairs that have been decided by one goal or penalties.
    Ben Church, CNN Money, 6 July 2026
Adjective
  • Every cybersecurity article is based on rigorous reporting by our team of expert writers and editors.
    Brian Sloan, CNBC, 3 July 2026
  • This improves both customer and agent experience, while still meeting rigorous business standards around accuracy, reliability, and risk management.
    Forbes.com, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026
Adjective
  • In the nation’s gravest hour, the country’s authoritarian regime has crippled an effective response, say survivors, rescue workers and former officials.
    Terrence McCoy, Washington Post, 1 July 2026
  • Some are fleeing authoritarian regimes, war or natural disasters.
    Angie Leventis Lourgos, Chicago Tribune, 28 June 2026
Adjective
  • Goldin, who appeared in 11 Heat games as a rookie, was very solid on Friday, blocking a shot by Maliq Brown and then blocking a shot on an alley oop.
    Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 4 July 2026
  • Additionally, Thursday morning’s mission was the last to use the Atlas V’s most powerful configuration with five strap-on solid rocket boosters.
    Stephen Clark, ArsTechnica, 3 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Rigid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rigid. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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