Synonyms of rigidity

rigidity

noun

rə-ˈji-də-tē 

as in severity

the quality or state of being demanding or unyielding (as in discipline or criticism)

sometimes the rigidity of the headmaster's discipline was deemed excessive by even much of the faculty

Synonyms & Similar Words

• severity
• rigidness
• inflexibility
• strictness
• sternness
• hardness
• stringency
• harshness
• rigorousness
• rigor
• exactingness
• obduracy
• implacability
• callousness
• gruffness
• steadfastness
• pitilessness
• resolve
• monasticism
• firmness
• obstinacy
• stubbornness
• dourness
• hard-heartedness
• asceticism
• determination
• obdurateness
• austerity
• austereness

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• flexibility
• tolerance
• gentleness
• softness
• patience
• tenderness
• indulgence
• kindness
• laxness
• responsiveness
• willingness
• forbearance
• mildness
• compliance
• lenience
• pliability
• pliancy

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of rigidity

Yet Reagan, especially at Reykjavik, was hobbled at times by rigidity and tunnel vision. — Tom Nichols, The Atlantic, 14 Aug. 2026

Finding balance has been something France has struggled with since its success at the 2018 World Cup and Zidane will be tasked with combining France’s offensive arsenal with defensive rigidity behind them. — Thomas Schlachter, CNN Money, 28 July 2026

There may not be quite as many small-time sailors in the harbor this time, owing to the rigidity that has become inevitable since the 9/11 attacks, but plenty of weekend captains will make their way here. — Christopher Bonanos, Curbed, 30 June 2026

Ekman’s seven-point system, however useful as a package, leans toward rigidity, turning the face once again into a surface to be decoded. — Cal Revely-Calder, New Yorker, 29 June 2026