rigorous

adjective

rig·​or·​ous ˈri-g(ə-)rəs How to pronounce rigorous (audio)
1
: manifesting, exercising, or favoring rigor : very strict
2
a
: marked by extremes of temperature or climate
b
3
: scrupulously accurate : precise
rigorously adverb
rigorousness noun
Choose the Right Synonym for rigorous

rigid, rigorous, strict, stringent mean extremely severe or stern.

rigid implies uncompromising inflexibility.

rigid rules of conduct

rigorous implies the imposition of hardship and difficulty.

the rigorous training of recruits

strict emphasizes undeviating conformity to rules, standards, or requirements.

strict enforcement of the law

stringent suggests severe, tight restriction or limitation.

stringent standards of admission

Examples of rigorous in a Sentence

rigorous enforcement of the rules a rigorous course of study We subjected the data to a rigorous analysis.
Recent Examples on the Web Virgos may find a trip to a healing center an ideal reprieve from everyday life, especially one that has a rigorous schedule. Michaela Trimble, Vogue, 13 Mar. 2024 The eclectic group of experts Kestner interviews could, under a more rigorous set of eyes, could frame a fascinating discussion. Manuel Betancourt, Variety, 13 Mar. 2024 Boeing is facing a rigorous review from federal aviation regulators after a series of incidents, including the blowout of a fuselage section during an Alaska Airlines flight in January. Mary Schlangenstein, Fortune, 11 Mar. 2024 Infection prevention measures include rigorous cleaning schedules and sterilization of spaces and equipment that are used for patient care. Kayla Hui, Verywell Health, 10 Mar. 2024 Educational and Licensing Requirements: The journey to becoming a tax attorney begins with completing law school, underscored by the rigorous Law School Admission Test (LSAT). Bryce Welker, Miami Herald, 5 Mar. 2024 The first is rigorous analytical skills (both quantitative and qualitative). Archana Rao, Forbes, 28 Feb. 2024 Paul's mother is also a member of the Bene Gesserit, an all-female group that obtains superhuman powers through rigorous mental training. Stephanie Kaloi, Peoplemag, 28 Feb. 2024 There should be rigorous tracking of unpaid invoices, which can ultimately lead to high-tension situations for the company. Jose Luis Gonzalez Rodriguez, Forbes, 1 Mar. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'rigorous.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of rigorous was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near rigorous

Cite this Entry

“Rigorous.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rigorous. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

rigorous

adjective
rig·​or·​ous ˈrig-(ə-)rəs How to pronounce rigorous (audio)
1
: very strict
2
: marked by great differences of temperature or climate
3
: very accurate
rigorously adverb
rigorousness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on rigorous

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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