Definition

A person who strictly adheres to rules or principles, often in a severe or inflexible manner.

Example

The rigorist insisted on following the rules without exception, even when it seemed unreasonable.

Conversation

I was reading about different philosophies, and I came across the term rigorist.

Oh, really? What does it mean exactly?

It refers to someone who is very strict or rigorous in their beliefs, often with a religious context.

That sounds intense! I wonder if there are many rigorists out there today.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Rigorist → It is formed from "rigor" (from Latin "rigor", meaning stiffness or strictness) and the suffix "-ist" (meaning one who practices or is concerned with). A rigorist is someone who adheres strictly to rules or principles.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is very 'strict' ('rigor') about their beliefs or practices — that's what a rigorist is.

Visually Confused Words