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)
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
Over time, the concept of resistance evolved into a broader identity, one rooted in challenging industry rigidity with humor and approachability.
—
Lyssanoel Frater, USA Today, 19 Feb. 2026
The freedom-loving sign tends to struggle with routine and rigidity, making a pairing with comfort creature Taurus particularly challenging.
—Maressa Brown, InStyle, 15 Feb. 2026
Check the stems for rigidity and make sure that plant material is clean with no indications of mold or decay.
—Heather Zidack, Hartford Courant, 15 Feb. 2026
Athletes in these sports also experience high demands of constant competition, rigidity around their dieting and exercise schedule, high energy output and an incredibly high mental and physical strain on their bodies.
—Emily Hemendinger, The Conversation, 13 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for rigidity
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Lyssanoel Frater, USA Today, 19 Feb. 2026
The freedom-loving sign tends to struggle with routine and rigidity, making a pairing with comfort creature Taurus particularly challenging.
—Maressa Brown, InStyle, 15 Feb. 2026
Check the stems for rigidity and make sure that plant material is clean with no indications of mold or decay.
—Heather Zidack, Hartford Courant, 15 Feb. 2026
Athletes in these sports also experience high demands of constant competition, rigidity around their dieting and exercise schedule, high energy output and an incredibly high mental and physical strain on their bodies.
—Emily Hemendinger, The Conversation, 13 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for rigidity
Cite this Entry
“Rigidity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rigidity. Accessed 21 Feb. 2026.
Copy CitationMedical 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
Diane Gershon
b
: emotional inflexibility and resistance to change
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