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

• severity

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

That — metaphorically and literally — is earned dogmatism, the risk that expertise breeds rigidity in our thinking and decision-making. —Tim Maurer, Forbes.com, 31 Aug. 2025

In lagers, for example, the key factor is surface viscoelasticity, or the elasticity and rigidity of the bubble film. —Bojan Stojkovski, Interesting Engineering, 31 Aug. 2025

That’s because Feinberg saw writing as a tool to break down the rigidity of previous understandings of transition. —Quispe López, Them., 29 Aug. 2025

Rather, our rigidity around them is. —Devonne Goode, Parents, 27 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1624, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for rigidity

• acidity
• aridity
• avidity
• cupidity
• fluidity
• humidity
• liquidity
• lucidity
• morbidity
• placidity
• rancidity
• rapidity

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