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

In business, this translates into alignment without rigidity. —Naira Velumyan, Forbes.com, 20 May 2026

Whereas on The Pitt, that rigidity, that specificity is where the freedom lies. —Raven Brunner, PEOPLE, 18 May 2026

The Pull-on Jeans deliver the appearance of classic denim with none of the rigidity that usually comes with it. —Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 14 May 2026

This system has drawn heavy criticism in the past for its rigidity and impact to mental health. —Jessie Yeung, CNN Money, 2 May 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