Definition of rigidnext
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Synonym Chooser

How is the word rigid distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of rigid are rigorous, strict, and stringent. While all these words mean "extremely severe or stern," rigid implies uncompromising inflexibility.

rigid rules of conduct

When would rigorous be a good substitute for rigid?

The synonyms rigorous and rigid are sometimes interchangeable, but rigorous implies the imposition of hardship and difficulty.

the rigorous training of recruits

When might strict be a better fit than rigid?

The words strict and rigid can be used in similar contexts, but strict emphasizes undeviating conformity to rules, standards, or requirements.

strict enforcement of the law

When could stringent be used to replace rigid?

Although the words stringent and rigid have much in common, stringent suggests severe, tight restriction or limitation.

stringent standards of admission

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of rigid Instead, she is forced to use a rigid, one-handed pushing motion from her chest just to get the ball to the rim. Jackson Thompson, FOXNews.com, 26 June 2026 The bio-andy was flung off its feet, the light armor turning rigid. Jeff Spry, Space.com, 26 June 2026 While a commune might evoke group meetings, rules, and chore charts, the mommune is far less rigid about who does and pays for what. Kayla Levy, Curbed, 25 June 2026 Many students come to class with different backgrounds, interests, and learning needs, and are greeted with a curriculum that can feel rigid, boring, and far removed from the world around them. Mike Goldstein, The Atlantic, 25 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for rigid
Recent Examples of Synonyms for rigid
Adjective
  • California has strict fireworks laws because of the combination of fire danger and population, Berlant said.
    Trevor Hughes, USA Today, 30 June 2026
  • In whatever role, expect Teng to be on a strict innings limit and pitch count for his next few outings at Triple-A Sugar Land.
    Chandler Rome, New York Times, 29 June 2026
Adjective
  • Summer 2026 is having a tough time deciding on this season’s dominating nail trend.
    María Diez, Vogue, 26 June 2026
  • These are typically low-wage jobs that the healthcare industry writ large has had a tough time recruiting for since the pandemic.
    Dana Taylor, USA Today, 26 June 2026
Adjective
  • In the days leading up to his show, Chavarria and his team were hard at work in his make-shift studio in the 6th arrondissement.
    Leah Dolan, CNN Money, 27 June 2026
  • Closing a chapter, not the relationships For Sevy, the hardest part is closing this chapter with the people who made the place feel like home.
    Erin Jones, CBS News, 27 June 2026
Adjective
  • How to Restore Absorbency to Towels To restore absorbency to stiff towels, Sokolowski recommends performing a deep clean.
    Louise Parks, Martha Stewart, 30 June 2026
  • Vigorously whisk remaining 1 cup of cream with powdered sugar in a large bowl until medium-stiff peaks form, 2 to 3 minutes.
    Erin Merhar, Southern Living, 30 June 2026
Adjective
  • With life spent largely on transit, navigating tight layovers, and using their days off to jet-set across the globe, flight attendants have mastered the art of packing.
    Julia Morlino, Travel + Leisure, 30 June 2026
  • Polls overall anticipate a tight race, including a June 19 survey by the news site Zeteo showing DeGette trailing Kiros 41% to 36%.
    Terry Collins, USA Today, 30 June 2026
Adjective
  • And a rigorous screening protocol for LFS patients developed by David Malkin, a protege of Fraumeni and Li, helps detect early-stage malignancies, improving the odds of treating them and prolonging lives.
    Lawrence Ingrassia, STAT, 26 June 2026
  • According to Lacey, who helped set up the Code Four program last year, enforcing the law requires a clear grasp of ethics and a rigorous attention to detail to make sure the job is done well.
    Noah Daly June 26, Idaho Statesman, 26 June 2026
Adjective
  • In the nation’s gravest hour, the country’s authoritarian regime has crippled an effective response, say survivors, rescue workers and former officials.
    Terrence McCoy, Washington Post, 1 July 2026
  • Some are fleeing authoritarian regimes, war or natural disasters.
    Angie Leventis Lourgos, Chicago Tribune, 28 June 2026
Adjective
  • Affordable July 4 destinations July 4 may be a peak travel period, but travelers can still snag some solid deals for a beach vacation.
    Kathleen Wong, USA Today, 24 June 2026
  • Plenty of the group stage games have gone 0-0 before players returned to the locker room, but at least solid chances have been created.
    Monica Alba, NBC news, 24 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Rigid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rigid. Accessed 2 Jul. 2026.

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