rigidity
noun
ri·gid·i·ty
rə-ˈji-də-tē 
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
Athletes in these sports also experience high demands of constant competition, rigidity around their dieting and exercise schedule, high energy output and an incredibly high mental and physical strain on their bodies.
—
Emily Hemendinger, The Conversation, 13 Feb. 2026
According to some who knew and studied him, his rigidity masked a lack of confidence in his own judgment.
—Robert F. Worth, The Atlantic, 6 Feb. 2026
The culture embraced innovation and experimentation versus the rigidity of public schools.
—Chris Talgo, Washington Post, 5 Feb. 2026
The changes, along with updates like an independent front suspension and a 50 percent increase in structural rigidity, helped push the Land Cruiser even further up the prestige ladder.
—Will Sabel Courtney, Robb Report, 5 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for rigidity
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Emily Hemendinger, The Conversation, 13 Feb. 2026
According to some who knew and studied him, his rigidity masked a lack of confidence in his own judgment.
—Robert F. Worth, The Atlantic, 6 Feb. 2026
The culture embraced innovation and experimentation versus the rigidity of public schools.
—Chris Talgo, Washington Post, 5 Feb. 2026
The changes, along with updates like an independent front suspension and a 50 percent increase in structural rigidity, helped push the Land Cruiser even further up the prestige ladder.
—Will Sabel Courtney, Robb Report, 5 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for rigidity
Cite this Entry
“Rigidity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rigidity. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
rigidity
noun
ri·gid·i·ty
rə-ˈjid-ət-ē
plural rigidities
: the quality or state of being rigid: as
a
: abnormal stiffness of muscle
muscle rigidity symptomatic of Parkinson's disease—Diane Gershon
Diane Gershon
b
: emotional inflexibility and resistance to change
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