rigorous

adjective

rig·​or·​ous ˈri-g(ə-)rəs 

1

: manifesting, exercising, or favoring rigor : very strict

2

a

: marked by extremes of temperature or climate

b

: harsh, severe

3

: scrupulously accurate : precise

rigorously adverb

rigorousness noun

Synonyms of rigorous

• strict
• tough
• harsh
• authoritarian
• rigid
• stern

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

Every banking article is based on rigorous reporting by our team of expert writers and editors with extensive knowledge of banking products. —Elizabeth Gravier, CNBC, 20 May 2026

To pass the rigorous Vanguard evaluation program, Spectra successfully ran demanding simulations like HPCG, LAMMPS, and SPARTA. —Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 20 May 2026

According to the February report, a primary aim of the committee’s recommendations was to uphold both the internal and external roles of a rigorous grading system. —Michael T. Nietzel, Forbes.com, 20 May 2026

They were selected for their combination of accomplishments, skills and potential for success in rigorous college studies, according to program officials. —Elizabeth Marie Himchak, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for rigorous

• vigorous

Kids Definition

rigorous

adjective

rig·​or·​ous ˈrig-(ə-)rəs 

1

: very strict

2

: marked by great differences of temperature or climate

3

: very accurate

rigorously adverb

rigorousness noun