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 of strict

• accurate
• true
• careful
• exact
• precise
• authentic
• faithful

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

Stricter regulations The proposal also sets clearer expectations for how data center developers should engage with the Independence community, along with stricter guidelines around consequences for breaking city ordinances. — Ilana Arougheti july 14, Kansas City Star, 14 July 2026

While the executive order was largely perceived as a flexible behavioral intervention, Section 815 would be a stricter prohibition contingent on waivers that reaches far beyond prime military contractors. — Garrett Downs, CNBC, 14 July 2026

There is rage at the machines for turning what should be a spiritual game into the strictest and most tedious rule-following exercise possible. — Jay Caspian Kang, New Yorker, 14 July 2026

Everyday Health follows strict sourcing guidelines to ensure the accuracy of its content, outlined in our editorial policy. — Emily Kay Votruba, EverydayHealth.com, 13 July 2026

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
• under (strict) orders

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