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Rigid: Definition, Usage & Common Mistakes (2 meaning)

Meaning 1:stiff and unbending (rigid)

rigid 🔊
/ˈrɪdʒ.ɪd/
adj.
Something that is stiff and not easy to bend or change shape.
Rigid meaning illustrated by a metal ruler that won't bend, showing stiffness.
stiff and unbending 🔊
/stɪf ənd ʌnˈbɛndɪŋ/
adj.
Describes an object that is firm and resistant to bending or deformation.
📁 Category:Objects & Materials 🔖 Level:intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'rigidus' meaning stiff or hard, related to 'rigere' (to be stiff).
💡 Mnemonic
Imagine a rigid steel bar; it's completely stiff and won't bend at all.
📖 Example
The old water pipe was so rigid that the plumber couldn't bend it to fit the new connection. 🔊 The aged water pipe was too stiff for the plumber to bend and connect properly.
🔗 Collocations
rigid structure – a structure that does not flex or bend easily
rigid material – a material that is hard and unyielding
rigid frame – a frame that maintains its shape under pressure
🔄 Synonyms
stiff (adj.) – not easily bent or changed in shape
inflexible (adj.) – not capable of bending or being bent
unyielding (adj.) – not giving way to pressure or persuasion
🚫 Antonyms
flexible (adj.) – capable of bending easily without breaking
pliable (adj.) – easily bent or shaped
elastic (adj.) – able to return to original shape after being stretched
🌱 Derivatives
rigidity (n.) – the quality or state of being rigid
rigidly (adv.) – in a rigid manner
📖 Cultural Story
The word 'rigid' originates from Latin 'rigidus', meaning stiff. It entered English in the 15th century, initially describing physical objects, later extended to inflexible attitudes or systems.

Meaning 2:strict and unyielding (rigid)

rigid 🔊
/ˈrɪdʒ.ɪd/
adj.
Describes a person, rule, or system that is very strict and not willing to change.
Rigid definition of strictness shown as a person blocked by an unyielding wall.
strict and unyielding 🔊
/strɪkt ənd ʌnˈjiːldɪŋ/
adj.
Refers to a person, rule, or system that is very strict and unwilling to change or adapt.
📁 Category:Social Roles, Behaviors & Actions 🔖 Level:intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Example
My grandfather has a rigid routine; he eats breakfast at exactly 7:15 every single day. 🔊 My grandfather adheres to a very strict daily schedule, with breakfast always at 7:15 AM.
🔗 Collocations
rigid rules – rules that are very strict and allow no exceptions
rigid discipline – strict and unwavering enforcement of rules
rigid mindset – a way of thinking that is inflexible and resistant to change
🔄 Synonyms
strict (adj.) – demanding that rules are obeyed exactly
inflexible (adj.) – unwilling to change or adapt
unyielding (adj.) – not giving in to pressure or persuasion
🚫 Antonyms
flexible (adj.) – able to change or adapt easily
adaptable (adj.) – able to adjust to new conditions
lenient (adj.) – more tolerant or permissive
🌱 Derivatives
rigidity (n.) – the quality of being rigid or inflexible
rigidly (adv.) – in a strict and unyielding manner
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