Rigor

Noun

Definition: The quality of being extremely thorough, accurate, or precise.

Definition: Rigidity or stiffness of a body or material.

Synonyms: Exactness, Precision, Meticulousness

Antonyms: Leniency, Laxity, Flexibility

Examples:
  • The scientist approached the experiment with rigor, ensuring every detail was accounted for.
  • The rigor of the steel beam made it resistant to bending under pressure.
Mnemonics:
  • Think of rigor as being strict and precise.
  • Rigor mortis, a term used to describe the stiffening of muscles after death, can remind you of the meaning of rigor.

Etymology:

Origin:

Middle English (in the sense 'stiffness, rigidity'): from Latin rigor, from rigere 'be stiff or rigid'.

Historical Usage:

The word has roots in Latin and has been used in English since the 14th century, initially referring to physical stiffness. Over time, it gained a figurative sense to describe strictness and meticulousness.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Rigor mortis"

Explanation:

A Latin term used to describe the stiffening of muscles after death, reflecting the original meaning of rigor.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing rigor with rigor mortis.

Explanation:

While rigor mortis is a specific term for the postmortem stiffening of muscles, rigor has a broader meaning related to strictness, thoroughness, and precision in various contexts. It is not limited to the context of death.

Share: Twitter Facebook LinkedIn