rigorous

The word “rigorous” means extremely thorough, careful, and exacting. In plain terms, very strict, thorough, and demanding — used for careful processes as well as harsh conditions.

“Rigorous” is pronounced RIH-guh-ruhs (/ˈɹɪɡəɹəs/ in IPA).

Here is “rigorous” used in a sentence: “The medication went through rigorous testing before release.”

Words with a similar meaning to “rigorous” include painstaking, scrupulous and strict.

The opposite of “rigorous” — its antonyms — are arbitrary, capricious and whimsical.

“Rigorous” is an adjective.

The word “rigorous” comes from Late Latin. From Middle French rigoreus, from Late Latin rigōrōsus (\"stiff, inflexible\").

“Rigorous” is an uncommon word in modern English.

"Rigorous" describes a process, method, or standard that is extremely thorough and exacting, such as a rigorous investigation. "Rigid" describes something inflexible or unwilling to change, which can be a negative trait rather than a mark of thoroughness.

"Rigorous" most naturally describes methods, standards, training, or analysis, such as "rigorous testing," but it can extend to a person's approach or discipline, as in "a rigorous researcher." It is less commonly used to describe personality traits directly.

"Thorough" simply means complete and detailed, covering everything necessary. "Rigorous" adds a sense of strictness and exacting standards, implying the process leaves no room for error, as captured in its harsher secondary meaning of being severe.