rigour

The word 'rigour' traces its lineage to the Latin noun 'rigor', which itself derives from the verb 'rigēre', meaning 'to be stiff or numb'. This core concept of stiffness evolved metaphorically in Latin to denote harshness, severity, and inflexibility. Entering English via Anglo-Norman and Old French in the 14th century, it initially described physical stiffness (as in rigor mortis) and the harshness of climate or conditions. Over time, its primary meaning shifted towards an intellectual and procedural application, capturing the metaphorical 'stiffness' or strict adherence to principles, standards, and meticulous accuracy.

Structure: rig (stiff, hard) + our (noun suffix) 'rig' originates from Latin 'rigor', meaning 'stiffness, hardness, numbness'. The suffix '-our' is a noun-forming suffix of Latin origin, commonly used in British English spelling (equivalent to '-or' in American English).