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)

Synonyms of rigidity

• severity

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

But there is a point where confidence can quietly become certainty, and certainty can become rigidity. — Antonia Bowring, Forbes.com, 29 Sep. 2026

Because different areas of the striatum correspond to different types of movement, the researchers propose that similar imbalances in other striatal circuits could potentially contribute to other forms of behavioral rigidity, as per the release. — Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 28 Sep. 2026

The downside is its flimsy construction; the bottom section lacks the rigidity to hold its shape and gives way like a cheap folder. — Kimberly Gedeon, PC Magazine, 27 Sep. 2026

In 2022, she was diagnosed with the rare and progressive autoimmune and neurological disorder — which can cause muscle rigidity, mobility issues, painful spasms and shortness of breath. — Bailey Richards, PEOPLE, 20 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1607, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for rigidity

• acidity
• aridity
• avidity
• cupidity
• fluidity
• humidity
• liquidity
• lucidity
• morbidity
• placidity
• rancidity
• rapidity

Medical 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

b

: emotional inflexibility and resistance to change