rigid

Pronunciation: /ˈrɪdʒɪd/

adjective

Difficulty: intermediate

Definition of rigid

rigid (adjective): Unable to bend or be forced out of shape; not flexible in structure, opinion, or behavior; unyieldingly strict or severe.

Example: The rigid framework of the ancient building ensured its stability despite centuries of wear and tear.

Best for: intermediate-difficulty vocabulary; learners who already know "inflexible" or "unyielding"; GRE Verbal (Text Completion, Sentence Equivalence); SAT Reading & Writing (Words in Context).

Origin of rigid

Language of origin: Latin

Root word: rigidus

Original meaning: stiff, hard, or unbending

How it evolved: The word transitioned from Latin to Old French as 'rigide' and then to Middle English with its current spelling, retaining its core meaning of inflexibility.

The word 'rigid' originates from Latin, reflecting the idea of stiffness or inflexibility both physically and metaphorically.

First known use: 15th century

How to Remember rigid

Think of 'rigid' as a 'rig' that is 'idly' stuck in one position—it cannot bend or move!

Synonyms for rigid

Antonyms of rigid

rigid in a Sentence

  1. The rigid framework of the ancient building ensured its stability despite centuries of wear and tear.
  2. Her rigid adherence to the rules left little room for creativity or innovation within the team.
  3. The professor enforced a rigid deadline policy, allowing no extensions under any circumstances.

rigid in Literature & Culture

The concept of 'rigidity' is often explored in literature and philosophy, such as in critiques of rigid societal structures in George Orwell's '1984' or Kafka's works.

Usage Notes

While 'rigid' often carries a negative connotation of being overly strict or inflexible, it can also imply strength and stability in the right context. Be mindful of whether its use is literal (physical stiffness) or metaphorical (strict behavior or rules).

Why rigid Matters for GRE & SAT

The word 'rigid' is commonly used in GRE reading comprehension and analytical writing to describe inflexible rules, ideologies, or structures. Knowing its nuanced synonyms and antonyms is invaluable for test-takers.

Word Family

rigidity (noun)
The quality of being stiff, unyielding, or inflexible.
rigidly (adverb)
In an unyielding or inflexible manner.
rigidness (noun)
The state or quality of being rigid.

Did You Know?

  • The term 'rigid' is frequently used in physics to describe objects that do not deform under stress.
  • In psychology, 'rigid thinking' refers to an inability to adapt to new information or perspectives.
  • The word is often used metaphorically in literature to critique authoritarian systems or inflexible social norms.

More Vocabulary Words Starting with R

  • Recalcitrant — Having an obstinately uncooperative attitude; stubbornly resistant to authority.
  • radical — far-reaching; major
  • radical — Relating to or affecting the fundamental nature of something
  • radical — far-reaching; major
  • radical — Relating to or affecting the fundamental nature of something
  • ramification — A consequence of an action or event, especially a complex one
  • ramification — a consequence or resulting action of a previous event
  • ramification — a consequence or resulting action of a previous event
  • rampant — Spreading unchecked; flourishing in an unwelcome way
  • rampant — Spreading unchecked; flourishing in an unwelcome way