Strict

/stɹɪkt/ · adjective

Meaning

Strained; drawn close; tight..

Definitions by Sense

1. Strained; drawn close; tight.
2. Tense; not relaxed.
3. Exact; accurate; precise; rigorously particular.
4. Governed or governing by exact rules; observing exact rules; severe; rigorous.
5. Rigidly interpreted; exactly limited; confined; restricted.
6. (botany) Upright, or straight and narrow; — said of the shape of the plants or their flower clusters.
7. Severe in discipline.
8. (set theory, order theory) Irreflexive; if the described object is defined to be reflexive, that condition is overridden and replaced with irreflexive.

Example Sentences

strict embrace

strict ligature

strict fiber

to keep strict watch

to pay strict attention

they are very strict in observing the Sabbath

No one, however, would have anything to do with him, as Mr. Keeson's orders in those respects were very strict ; he had often threatened any one of his employés with instant dismissal if he found him in company with one of these touts.

to understand words in a strict sense

Synonyms for strict

Antonyms for strict

Related Words

Word Forms

• stricter
• strictest

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

Practice and Learn More

Frequently Asked Questions