rigidity

noun

ri·​gid·​i·​ty rə-ˈji-də-tē How to pronounce rigidity (audio)
plural rigidities
1
: the quality or state of being rigid
2
: one that is rigid (as in form or conduct)

Examples of rigidity in a Sentence

sometimes the rigidity of the headmaster's discipline was deemed excessive by even much of the faculty
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The establishment’s rigidity is most evident with respect to COVID’s origins. Daniel Immerwahr, New Yorker, 19 May 2025 From the rigidity of billable hours to the outdated communication systems and office politics, the system didn’t make sense. William Jones, USA Today, 17 May 2025 The look is a master class in contrast—the rigidity of the leather a perfect foil for the airy fabric adorning her bottom half. Ángela Moreno Vallejo, Glamour, 9 May 2025 Stay true to your March vote, board members, and hire an interim CPS boss who won’t risk the system’s insolvency because of the mayor’s myopic ideological rigidity. The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 7 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for rigidity

Word History

First Known Use

1624, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of rigidity was in 1624

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Rigidity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rigidity. Accessed 23 May. 2025.

Medical Definition

rigidity

noun
ri·​gid·​i·​ty rə-ˈjid-ət-ē How to pronounce rigidity (audio)
plural rigidities
: the quality or state of being rigid: as
a
: abnormal stiffness of muscle
muscle rigidity symptomatic of Parkinson's diseaseDiane Gershon
b
: emotional inflexibility and resistance to change

More from Merriam-Webster on rigidity

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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