rigidity

noun

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

Synonyms of rigidity

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Examples of rigidity in a Sentence

sometimes the rigidity of the headmaster's discipline was deemed excessive by even much of the faculty
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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.
This effect is multiplied during supply chain disruptions, which reward agility and punish rigidity. — Gary McGuigan, Forbes.com, 29 July 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 These devices relied on it to provide rigidity to the chassis while keeping the weight down when compared with stainless steel. — Eric Zeman, PC Magazine, 22 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 See All Example Sentences for rigidity

Word History

First Known Use

1607, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of rigidity was in 1607

Rhymes for rigidity

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Browse Nearby Words

rigidify
rigidity
rigidly
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Cite this Entry

“Rigidity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rigidity. Accessed 7 Aug. 2026.

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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 disease—Diane Gershon
b
: emotional inflexibility and resistance to change

More from Merriam-Webster on rigidity

Nglish: Translation of rigidity for Spanish Speakers

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