strict

adjective

ˈstrikt 

1

a

: stringent in requirement or control

under strict orders

b

: severe in discipline

a strict teacher

2

a

: inflexibly maintained or adhered to

strict secrecy

b

: rigorously conforming to principle or a norm or condition

3

: exact, precise

in the strict sense of the word

4

: of narrow erect habit of growth

a strict inflorescence

5

archaic

a

: tight, close

also : intimate

b

: narrow

strictly

ˈstrik(t)-lē 

adverb

strictness

ˈstrik(t)-nəs 

noun

Synonyms

• accurate
• authentic
• exact
• faithful
• precise
• right
• true
• veracious

Choose the Right Synonym for strict

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 strict in a Sentence

Her parents aren't very strict.

He insists on strict adherence to the rules.

Recent Examples on the Web

So Read, a 56-year-old sexologist and writer based in Calgary, Canada, developed a strict sleep and bedtime routine. —Erica Sweeney, SELF, 18 Apr. 2025

Augusta National Golf Club, where the tournament takes place each April, has a strict no cell phone and cameras rule during the four days of official competition. —Jessica Radloff, Glamour, 18 Apr. 2025

Norway is expected to introduce a tourist tax soon, but postponed a strict 2026 law requiring large cruise ships to produce zero emissions to 2032. —Jessica Benavides Canepa, AFAR Media, 17 Apr. 2025

Here's How to Start a Cookbook Club with Local Foodies The Bottom Line: Respect Your Host's Time While casual, social gatherings allow for me relaxed arrival and departure times, formal gatherings often have strict schedules that include firm start times. —Claire Hoppe Norgaard, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English stricte, from Latin strictus, from past participle of stringere to bind tight — more at strain

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 5

Phrases Containing strict

• in strict/strictest confidence
• in the strict/strictest sense (of the word)
• strict liability

Rhymes for strict

• bricked
• clicked
• flicked
• kicked
• licht
• licked
• nicht
• nicked
• picked
• pricked
• richt
• slicked

Kids Definition

strict

adjective

ˈstrikt 

1

: permitting no avoidance or escape

under strict orders

2

a

: kept with great care : absolute

strict secrecy

b

: carefully obeying rules or a code of conduct

3

: completely correct : exact, precise

in the strict meaning of the word

strictly

ˈstrik-(t)lē 

adverb

strictness

ˈstrik(t)-nəs 

noun

Legal Definition

strict

adjective

1

: characterized by narrowness : not demonstrating a broad or liberal view

strict interpretation

2

a

: firm or rigid in requirement or control

b

: severe in discipline

3

a

: inflexibly maintained or adhered to

b

: rigorously conforming to a principle or norm or condition

a strict bill of interpleader

4

: not requiring fault see also strict liability at liability sense 2b

strictly adverb