RIGID Synonyms: 187 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'rigid' distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of rigid are rigorous , strict , and stringent . While all these words mean "extremely severe or stern," rigid implies uncompromising inflexibility. // rigid rules of conduct

Q: When would 'rigorous' be a good substitute for 'rigid'?

The synonyms rigorous and rigid are sometimes interchangeable, but rigorous implies the imposition of hardship and difficulty. // the rigorous training of recruits

Q: When might 'strict' be a better fit than 'rigid'?

The words strict and rigid can be used in similar contexts, but strict emphasizes undeviating conformity to rules, standards, or requirements. // strict enforcement of the law

Q: When could 'stringent' be used to replace 'rigid'?

Although the words stringent and rigid have much in common, stringent suggests severe, tight restriction or limitation. // stringent standards of admission

rigid

adjective

ˈri-jəd

Definition of rigid next

as in strict

not allowing for any exceptions or loosening of standards rigid enforcement of drug laws

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in tough

given to exacting standards of discipline and self-restraint a rigid man who cannot seem to relax

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as in hard

having a consistency that does not easily yield to pressure rigid steel bars that should be able to hold the weight

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as in stiff

incapable of or highly resistant to bending corsets, those rigid undergarments for women, must have been murder to wear

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as in tight

stretched with little or no give make sure that the clothesline is rigid so that the longer garments don't drag on the ground

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word rigid distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of rigid are rigorous, strict, and stringent. While all these words mean "extremely severe or stern," rigid implies uncompromising inflexibility.

rigid rules of conduct

When would rigorous be a good substitute for rigid?

The synonyms rigorous and rigid are sometimes interchangeable, but rigorous implies the imposition of hardship and difficulty.

the rigorous training of recruits

When might strict be a better fit than rigid?

The words strict and rigid can be used in similar contexts, but strict emphasizes undeviating conformity to rules, standards, or requirements.

strict enforcement of the law

When could stringent be used to replace rigid?

Although the words stringent and rigid have much in common, stringent suggests severe, tight restriction or limitation.

stringent standards of admission

Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of rigid But in practice, the only real issue was that my often-hangry children struggled with the rigid French attitude toward mealtimes. —

Naomi Tomky, Travel + Leisure, 15 Jan. 2025 Tenderness in the belly or a rigid belly is also a cause for concern, along with being pregnant and experiencing abdominal pain. —

Angelica Bottaro, Verywell Health, 15 Jan. 2025 Marcia Cross reprises her iconic Desperate Housewives role for a special promo advertising the 2025 edition of Series Mania, a French TV festival, effortlessly slipping back into the shoes of Wisteria Lane’s rigid redhead. —

Andy Swift, TVLine, 14 Jan. 2025 Even when extended out to the 16.7-inch size, the taller display is fairly rigid. —

Brian Westover, PCMAG, 7 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for rigid

Recent Examples of Synonyms for rigid

Adjective

His remarkable physique is a testament to that strict regimen.

— The Athletic UK Staff, The Athletic, 24 Jan. 2025
This story incorporates reporting from KNOE, The Sun, ABC Columbia and Local 12 WKRC Cincinnati. Spirit Airlines has revised its policies to enforce a stricter dress code for passengers.

— Quartz Intelligence Newsroom, Quartz, 24 Jan. 2025