strict

adjective

ˈstrikt How to pronounce strict (audio)
Synonyms of strict
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 How to pronounce strict (audio)
adverb
strictness
ˈstrik(t)-nəs How to pronounce strict (audio)
noun

Synonyms of strict

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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
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.
Newer, stricter regulations for asylum seekers and migrants largely replaced the previous migration system, which was widely considered a failure. — ABC News, 4 Aug. 2026 Hewing to that kind of strict standard doesn’t make sense, said Gabriel Filippelli, an Indiana University earth sciences professor and longtime lead researcher. — Chris Bowling, ProPublica, 4 Aug. 2026 In a statement describing Abbott’s pause as inadequate, Hinojosa called for Abbott to issue a full moratorium on data center development until the state legislature can pass stricter rules. — Jeremy Hsu, ArsTechnica, 4 Aug. 2026 What this could mean for riders is stricter enforcement, according to the Meridian Police Department. — Rose Evans august 4, Idaho Statesman, 4 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for strict

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of strict was in the 15th century

Phrases Containing strict

Rhymes for strict

See All Rhymes for strict

Browse Nearby Words

strickle
strict
strict constructionist
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Strict.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/strict. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

strict

adjective
ˈstrikt How to pronounce strict (audio)
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 How to pronounce strict (audio)
adverb
strictness
ˈstrik(t)-nəs How to pronounce strict (audio)
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

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