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 of rigidity

• 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

There may not be quite as many small-time sailors in the harbor this time, owing to the rigidity that has become inevitable since the 9/11 attacks, but plenty of weekend captains will make their way here. — Christopher Bonanos, Curbed, 30 June 2026

Ekman’s seven-point system, however useful as a package, leans toward rigidity, turning the face once again into a surface to be decoded. — Cal Revely-Calder, New Yorker, 29 June 2026

The rigidity and delusions of tyrannies are incorrigible; their purity spirals end in executions, not just cancellations; their adventures end in devastation and slaughter. — Simon Sebag Montefiore, The Atlantic, 28 June 2026

But what struck me beyond his (to my mind) rigidity about roles was that his response to the disagreement was to shut down and refuse to talk to her. — Harriette Cole, Mercury News, 25 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1607, 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