Main Entry: strict

Pronunciation: \ˈstrikt\

Function: adjective

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

Date: 15th century

1 archaic a : tight, close; also : intimate b : narrow
2 a : stringent in requirement or control <under strict orders> b : severe in discipline <a strict teacher>
3 a : inflexibly maintained or adhered to <strict secrecy> b : rigorously conforming to principle or a norm or condition
4 : exact, precise <in the strict sense of the word>
5 : of narrow erect habit of growth <a strict inflorescence>

synonyms see rigid

— strict·ly \ˈstrik(t)-lē\ adverb

— strict·ness \-nəs\ noun