strict

adjective

\ ˈstrikt

Definition of strict

1a : stringent in requirement or control under strict orders

b : severe in discipline a strict teacher

2a : 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

Other Words from strict Synonyms & Antonyms Choose the Right Synonym More Example Sentences Learn More about strict

Keep scrolling for more

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

In 2004, Seminole voters approved a ballot measure that established a strict rural boundary mostly east of the Econ, Oviedo and Lake Jesup. — Martin E. Comas, OrlandoSentinel.com, "East Seminole residents express relief after board rejects rural development but ready for future battles," 13 July 2018 In the other semifinal, Novak Djokovic led Rafael Nadal two-sets-to-one when play was suspended just after 11 p.m. because of Wimbledon’s strict curfew. — Tom Perrotta, WSJ, "Kevin Anderson Outlasts John Isner in a Five-Set Marathon at Wimbledon," 13 July 2018 Lawmakers last year nearly unanimously approved stricter, annual inspection requirements for amusement park rides that set qualifications for the inspectors and required parks to report injuries and deaths to the state. — CBS News, "Verruckt waterslide, where 10-year-old boy died in 2016, to come down, park says," 12 July 2018 Typically, people’s private communications are subject to strict legal protections. — Ian Duncan, baltimoresun.com, "Prosecutors seek access to Capital Gazette shooting suspect's jail mail; his lawyer says that violates his rights," 12 July 2018 Late Wednesday, the government issued stricter guidance to asylum officers to reject claims based on fears of gang and domestic violence. — Lomi Kriel, San Antonio Express-News, "Half of migrants under 5 reunited with parents, though rest remain ‘ineligible’," 12 July 2018 The 2020 target is mandated by a 2006 law, but since then California has passed an even stricter law requiring emissions to be 40% below 1990 levels by the year 2030. — Lucas Laursen, Fortune, "California Beat Its 2020 Emissions Target Four Years Early," 12 July 2018 She's chosen feminine dress silhouettes, and for her entire first month as a royal kept to a strict color palette of white, beige, and blush. — Caroline Hallemann, Town & Country, "Meghan Markle Wears a Chic Black Suit on Her Second Day in Ireland," 11 July 2018 The throwback cut was a ladylike nod to the strict tailoring of the late 1940s, and its effect benefited from being paired with cropped cigarette trousers. — Edward Barsamian, Vogue, "Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, Works the Pantsuit Like a Princess Dress," 11 July 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'strict.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.