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

Soft, oversize totes signaled a move toward ease over rigidity. —Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 15 Oct. 2025

The cases are crafted to provide subtle texture for grip and precision, balancing rigidity and feather-light weight. —New Atlas, 12 Oct. 2025

Not only did the impact excavate material onto the surface for later study, but its very rigidity can also allow researchers to determine how stiff ice in the region was at formation. —Nola Taylor Tillman, Space.com, 10 Oct. 2025

Israeli leaders must look past the ideological rigidity that drives them to oppose any notion of Palestinian self-determination. —Shira Efron, Foreign Affairs, 23 Sep. 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