rigorous

adjective

rig·​or·​ous ˈri-g(ə-)rəs 

1

: manifesting, exercising, or favoring rigor : very strict

2

a

: marked by extremes of temperature or climate

b

: harsh, severe

3

: scrupulously accurate : precise

rigorously adverb

rigorousness noun

Synonyms of rigorous

• strict
• tough
• harsh
• authoritarian
• rigid
• stern

Choose the Right Synonym for rigorous

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 rigorous in a Sentence

rigorous enforcement of the rules

a rigorous course of study

We subjected the data to a rigorous analysis.

Recent Examples on the Web

Operating-model transformation requires both strategic vision and rigorous accountability, and only finance leaders sit at the intersection of both. — James Kavanaugh, Fortune, 30 Sep. 2026

Every personal finance article is based on rigorous reporting by our team of expert writers and editors with extensive knowledge of personal finance and savings products. — Jasmin Suknanan, CNBC, 30 Sep. 2026

While upfront acquisition metrics like annual contract value (ACV) often capture headlines, NRR reflects the true health and expansion of the business and demands rigorous commercial discipline and high-stakes negotiation. — Mike Trkay, Forbes.com, 29 Sep. 2026

Much like her character Maya, Kedia balanced pursuing the performing arts with a rigorous academic schedule. — Brianna J. Heath, Footwear News, 29 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for rigorous

• vigorous

Kids Definition

rigorous

adjective

rig·​or·​ous ˈrig-(ə-)rəs 

1

: very strict

2

: marked by great differences of temperature or climate

3

: very accurate

rigorously adverb

rigorousness noun